Chemistry in Sri Lanka ISSN 1012 - 8999 The Tri-Annual Publication of the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon Founded in 1971, Incorporated by Act of Parliament No. 15 of 1972 Successor to the Chemical Society of Ceylon, founded on 25th January 1941 Vol. 29 No. 1 January 2012

Pages Council 2011/2012 2 Outline of our Institute 2 Chemistry in Sri Lanka 2 Guest Editorial 3 Graduateship Examinations in Chemistry, 2011 - Level 1 4 Graduateship Examinations in Chemistry, 2011 - Level 2 4 International Year of Chemistry 2011 (IYC 2011) 5 Cover page 25 Highlights of the International Year of Chemistry 26 CHEMEX 2011 - Keynote Address - 28.01.2011 Chemistry in everyday life 27 Graduateship Examinations in Chemistry, 2011 - Level 3 29 CHEMEX 2011 - Keynote Address - 29.01.2011 Chemistry for Industry 30 Membership News 31 CHEMEX 2011 - Keynote Address - 30.01.2011 Professional Chemical Education for the well-being of Society for the Knowledge Based Era 32 Articles Science and its role in a better world; Role of young academics 33 Electrochemical Science: Advancement, contribution towards national development 34 Taurine - A therapeutic agent? 36 Polyphenylenes: Synthetic advances towards the nanostructures 41 Diploma in Laboratory Technology in Chemistry - 37th Batch 43 Devanathan Memorial Lecture 44 Eighth Convocation Awards & Prizes 2011 46 Publications of the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon 43 RSC News 44

Theme for the year - “Role of Chemistry Research in National Development”

Adamantane House, 341/22, Kotte Road, Welikada, Rajagiriya Office ( : 2861231, 2861653, 4015230 Ê : 2861231, 2861653 E mail : [email protected] web page : www.ichemc.edu.lk Outline of our Institute Council 2011/2012 The Institute of Chemistry Ceylon is a professional body and a learned society founded in 1971 and incorporated by act of President : Prof. S Sotheeswaran Parliament No. 15 of 1972. It is the successor to the Chemical President Elect : Prof. S Mohandas Society of Ceylon which was founded in 1941. Over 50 years of Vice President : Prof. H D Gunawardhana existence in Sri Lanka makes it the oldest scientific body in the Immediate Past President : Prof. M D P De Costa country. Hony. Joint Secretaries : Ms. M N K de S Goonatilleke The Institute has been established for the general advancement Dr. A A P Keerthi of the science and practice of Chemistry and for the enhancement Hony. Treasurer : Mr. N M S Hettigedara of the status of the profession of Chemistry in Sri Lanka. The Hony. Asst. Treasurer : Dr. (Ms) L S R Arambewela Institute represents all branches of the profession and its Hony. Editor : Prof. (Ms) Sujatha Hewage membership is accepted by the government of Sri Lanka (by Hony. Asst. Editor : Dr. (Ms) Chatu Sirimanne establishment circular 234 of 9-3-77) for purposes of Secretary for International recruitment and promotion of chemists. Relations : Prof (Ms) Siromi Samarasinghe Corporate Membership Chairman/Academic Board : Prof. J N O Fernando Full membership is referred to as corporate membership and Hony. Secretary for consists of two grades: Fellow (F.I.Chem.C.) and Educational Affairs : Ms. P M Jayasinha Member (M.I.Chem.C.) Chairman, Admission & Ethical Practices Committee : Mr. E G Somapala Application for non-corporate membership is entertained for four Secretary, A & EP Committee : Mrs Sakunthala Tennakoon grades: Associate (former Graduate) (A.I.Chem.C.), Licenciate (L.I.Chem.C.), Technician (Tech.I.Chem.C.) and Chairman, Board of Trustees : Prof. H D Gunawardhana Affiliate Member. Elected Members Revision of Membership Regulation Prof Sudantha Liyanage Dr (Ms) V M Thadhani All Special Degree Chemists can now apply directly to obtain Dr (Ms) Nandanie Ediriweera Dr (Ms) H M K K Pathirana Associate (Graduate) Membership. Three year B. Sc. Prof (Ms) Ramanie Wijesekera Mrs D Seneviratne Graduates (with an acceptable standard of Chemistry) can Mr K R Dayananda Dr A L Jayawardena (i) directly become Licentiate Dr Sisira Welliwegamage Ms Nalini de Silva (ii) obtain corporate membership in a lesser number of years. Tech.I.Chem.C. Those who have passed the DLTC examination or LTCC examination or have obtained equivalent qualification and are engaged in the practice of Chemistry (or chemical sciences) acceptable to the Council are entitled to the designation Editorial and Publicity Committee Tech.I.Chem.C. Prof. (Mrs) S Hewage (Editor) Dr. (Ms) C Sirimanne (Asst. Editor) Members/Fellows are entitled to the designation of Chartered Prof. (Mrs) Priyani Paranagama Chemist (C.Chem.) on establishment of a high level of Prof (Ms) Ramanee Wijesekera competence and professionalism in the practice of chemistry and showing their commitment to maintain their expertise. Prof S P Deraniyagala Prof (Ms) J Liyanage All corporate members (Members / Fellows) are entitled to vote and become Council/ Committee members whether Chartered Chemists or not. Membership Applications CHEMISTRY IN SRI LANKA Any application for admission to the appropriate class of membership or for transfer should be made on the prescribed Chemistry in Sri Lanka is a tri-annual publication of the form available from the Institute Office. Institute of Chemistry Ceylon and is published in January, May and Current Subscription Rates September of each year. It is circulated among the members of the Fees should be payed on 1st of July every year and will be in respect Institute of Chemistry and students of the Graduateship/DLTC of the year commencing from 1st July to 30th June course and libraries. The publication has a wide circulation and more Fellow Rs. 1200 than 1500 copies are published. Award winning lectures, abstracts Member Rs. 1200 of communications to be presented at the annual sessions, review Associate Rs. 900 papers, activities of the institute, membership news are some of the Licenciate Rs. 750 Technician Rs. 500 items included in the magazine. Affiliate Rs. 500 The editor invites from the membership the following items for Membership for Life Rs. 10000 publication in the next issue of the Chemistry in Sri Lanka which is Entrance Fee due to be released in May 2012. All the grades Rs. 500 ·Personal news of the members Processing Fees* Rs. 200 ·Brief articles of topical interests Processing Fee for ·Forthcoming conferences, seminars and workshops Chartered Chemist designation Rs. 1000 Institutional Members Rs. 2500 ·Latest text books and monographs of interest to chemists *per application for admission/transfer to any grade All publications will be subjected to approval of the 'Editorial Headquarters Building and Publicity Committee' and the Council of the Institute of Adamantane House Chemistry Ceylon. 341/22, Kotte Road, Welikada, Rajagiriya Further, prospective career opportunities for chemists, Telephone/Fax : 2861653, 2861231 could be advertised in Chemistry in Sri Lanka at a nominal Telephone: 4015230 payment. The editor welcomes from the members suggestions for e-mail : [email protected] web : www.ichemc.edu.lk www.ichemc.com improvement of the publication.

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 28 No. 3 02 Guest Editorial Private Tertiary Education Dr. R. D. Guneratne Department of Chemistry, University of Colombo

Recently, the government of Sri Lanka withdrew practically. A business exists to provide maximum a draft bill that was to have been presented in profit for its shareholders. It would tend to provide the Parliament, which would have, among other things, lowest-cost education that it could get away with. A set up a mechanism for establishing private non-profit, charitable institution would plough back universities. The proposed bill would have permitted into its programmes any excess of income over such institutions to be set up as businesses under the expenditure, and would tend to provide the best Companies Act, and would have established a body to possible education in the most cost-effective manner. control and govern them. This is not, after all, a hypothetical scenario. It is This bill provoked considerable discourse within the norm in our primary/secondary education system. the academic community and opposition from student The non-profit private schools do an excellent job of bodies, although the public reaction was muted. The educating children. So do the best of the international overall reaction among academics was negative, but schools, but at enormously higher fees. for a variety of reasons. Some are simply opposed to Non-profit universities have other advantages. private tertiary education, period. Others support the They are more likely to be seen by the public as concept of private universities, but were unhappy with genuine institutions of higher education, rather than the way the proposed Act would have implemented “degree shops” selling paper qualifications to those this concept, and also had grave reservations who are unable or unwilling to earn them. They would regarding other provisions of the bill, which would be able to attract additional revenue and capital in the have stripped the universities of what little autonomy form of charitable donations. They would probably be they still have. more willing to invest in their Faculty, encouraging or I would like to take this opportunity to express my even demanding research, scholarship, and own views on the subject. Let me start by saying that I professional activities, and creating a true community am firmly in the second group described above. Lest of scholars. These factors may not be important to my views prove controversial, let me also add that policy-makers, but should be important to us, as they are strictly my own, and do not reflect any official academics. Some of the best universities in the world position the Institute of Chemistry may or may not follow this model, including famous American have on the subject, except by coincidence! universities such as Harvard, Yale, and Stanford. Even In most countries in the world, private education the Institute of Chemistry and other similar plays an important role. Sri Lanka is no exception. In professional institutions, albeit not degree-granting the sphere of primary/secondary education, some of institutions, follow this model for their professional the oldest and most prestigious schools are private. qualifications. These are set up as non-profit institutions or charitable Certain newspapers have portrayed academics as trusts. Since independence, the establishment of new opposed to private universities. Recent trade union schools following this model has not been permitted. action was characterised as opposition to the draft bill. Nevertheless, the demand for quality education in this However, most academics I know, including myself, country has been enormous, and under-investment in are strong supporters of establishing private all but the most prestigious public schools has been universities. Our opposition to the bill was for other such that many public schools are shunned by middle- reasons, including the manner of implementation. It is class parents. This has given rise to the phenomenon of better to be defined by what you are FOR, rather than the “international schools,” which are in fact profit- what you are AGAINST. I would therefore like to making businesses, whose owners pay themselves a repeat my strong support for establishing private non- dividend. profit universities, and to assert the following The above examples illustrate the two models principles as a basis for establishing them in Sri which could be used to establish private universities – Lanka. either non-profit charitable trusts run by boards of trustees, or profit-making businesses paying 1. While it may not be possible to exclude profit- dividends to their shareholders. Superficially, there making universities, the non-profit model should may not be too much difference between these two be the preferred one. Provision should be made for models. For example, both would probably charge these to be set up as charitable trusts. whatever fees the market can bear. However, the 2. Such private universities should be accredited by distinction is very important, both philosophically and an independent accreditation board, using

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 03 transparent criteria and procedures. Individual 5. Non-profit private universities should act with professional programmes offered by them may be social responsibility, providing scholarships, separately accredited by the appropriate tuition discounts, and other forms of financial aid professional body. to excellent but needy students, and diversifying 3. Other than accreditation, such universities should its student body. be entirely independent and free of government It must also be remembered that tertiary control. They should be alternatives to, rather than education is a social good, as defined by economists. extensions of, the state system. The government should continue to fund public 4. Private universities should be free to structure universities, to ensure that those who cannot afford themselves, academically and administratively, in private universities, or choose programmes not any way they see fit, without having to conform to offered by them, can nonetheless read for degrees. The the state university models. Academic models existence of private universities should never become could span the gamut, from American style liberal an excuse for reducing investment in public ones. arts colleges to narrowly defined professional Given the current meager levels of investment, what is institutions. A diversity of models, degree in fact needed is a dramatic increase in funding. structures, teaching and assessment methods, etc., should be encouraged. Graduateship Examinations in Chemistry, 2011 LEVEL 1 – AWARDS LIST First prize and Nandawathie Jayaweera Memorial (Open) Scholarship Ms. K C Dissanayake Second prize and Charles Jayaweera Memorial (Open) Scholarship Mr. H M G K E Herath Third Prize and Prof. R S Ramakrishna Memorial Scholarship Ms. P P D Jayapala Fourth Prize and Dr. Dilanjan and Ms. Gowrie Soysa Scholarship Mr. S H Seneviratne

Second Charles Jayaweera Memorial (Sourthen Province) Scholarship Mr. M A T N Karunaratne

MERIT BURSARIES (in order of merit) Mr. M A T N Karunaratne, Ms. A H T Y M Ariyasinghe & Ms. J A Vanlangenberg, Ms. W A I U Jayawickrama, Ms. F N Ariff Refaideen & Ms. N U Dharmaratne, Ms. A M G A Ranasinghe SUBJECT PRIZES Graduate Chemist Alumni prize for General & Inorganic Chemistry Ms. R M I Bandara Emerine Fernando Memorial prize for Principles of Physical Chemistry Mr. H M G K E Herath Bennet prize for Mathematics for Chemists Ms. W A I U Jayawickrama Somawathie Mathew Memorial prize for Biology for Chemists Mr. S H Senevirathne Prof & Mrs S Sotheeswaran Prize for Principles of Organic Chemistry Ms. K C Dissanayake Mr & Mrs J M Ranasinghe Banda for Application of Mathematics in Chemistry Ms. K C Dissanayake Henry Ashmore Pieris Memorial Prize for Management, Economics & Finance Ms. K C Dissanayake & Ms. F S Shiham Level 2 - Awards List 1st Prize & W.F. Peiris Memorial Trust Scholarship Ms H J Pereira 2nd Prize & Professor W Pearlyn D Perera Commemoration Trust Scholarship Ms R M I Bandara 3rd Prize & Professor G.C.N. Jayasuriya Memorial Scholarship Ms H M Thirimanne 4th Prize & Family Leelarathna Scholarship Mr H B US Wimalasiri MERIT BURSARIES (in order of merit) Ms M R S L Bandara, Mr A M Casiechitty, Ms K Anoosheya, Ms M K S Jayalath & Ms D S Y Jayathilake, Mr J U Pothupitiya SUBJECT PRIZES Prof J.N. Oleap Fernando Prize for Physical Chemistry Ms H J Pereira Prof Samitha P. Deraniyagala Prize for Inorganic Chemistry Ms H J Pereira & Ms R M I Bandara Prof Siromi Samarasinghe Prize for Organic Chemistry Ms H J Pereira Yogaranee and Family Prize for Analytical Chemistry Ms H J Pereira Jayantha Welihinda Prize for Biochemistry I Ms H J Pereira Rex Jayasinghe Prize for Electronics & Instrumentation Ms H J Pereira & Ms R M I Bandara Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 04 International Year of Chemistry 2011 (IYC 2011) Chemistry- Our life, Our future

The International Year of Chemistry 2011 was Ethiopia brought a resolution to the UNESCO celebrated all over the world with great enthusiasm Executive Board at its meeting in April 2008 highlighting the achievements of Chemistry and its supporting the IUPAC decision with the help of nearly contributions to the wellbeing of humankind under the 25 countries. Following the meeting a task group was unifying theme, Chemistry-Our life, Our future. The formed to secure the designation by UNESCO of an year 2011 also coincided with the 100th anniversary of International Year of Chemistry. The Executive Board the award of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry to Marie of the UNESCO endorsed the proposal for Sklodowska Curie. This event also provided an proclamation by the United Nations of 2011 as the opportunity to celebrate the contributions made by International Year of Chemistry. women to Chemistry. Meanwhile IUPAC proceeded to establish a The Institute of Chemistry Ceylon (IChemC) management committee to coordinate the initiative. joined the worldwide celebrations of the International This group included IUPAC officers and Year of Chemistry 2011 (IYC 2011) by actively representatives of the major chemical federations from conducting many programmes through out the year to Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America and popularize Chemistry amongst the public especially representatives from industry and UNESCO. among the young generations. This issue of Chemistry In December 2008, the 63rd General Assembly of in Sri Lanka summarizes the activities conducted by the United Nations adopted the resolution proclaiming the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon to celebrate the 2011 as the International Year of Chemistry, placing event. UNESCO and IUPAC at the helm of the event.

Background of the IYC 2011* Aims and Objectives of the IYC 2011* The year 2011 marks the 100th anniversary of the The main objectives of IYC as identified by the founding of the International Association of Chemical committee appointed by the UNESCO and IUPAC Societies (IACS) which was succeeded by IUPAC few were as follows. years later. IACS and IUPAC were established to address the needs for international scientific 1. Increase the public appreciation of chemistry in communication and cooperation among chemists. The meeting world needs: Chemistry, appropriately year 2011 therefore would provide an opportunity to called the Central Science, is both a deeply highlight the benefits of international scientific philosophical inquiry and an applied scientific collaboration and the contributions to the benefit of the endeavour. The science of chemistry is fundamental to society at large during the past 100 years. The concept humanity's understanding of the world and the cosmos. of IYC 2011 started with the recognition among Molecular transformations are central to the IUPAC executive committee members to further the production of food stuffs, medicines, fuels, metals, i.e., cause of Chemistry and to derive significant benefits virtually all manufactured and extracted products. by securing a designated international year from the Through IYC the chemical community will publicly United Nations pertaining to Chemistry. The idea of celebrate the art and science of chemistry, its key holding a year of chemistry was first discussed in 2006, contributions to developing human knowledge, during the April meeting of the IUPAC executive advancing economic progress and fostering a committee. At its General Assembly on August 11-12, wholesome environment. 2007, the IUPAC Council endorsed the plan to obtain the United Nations approval of 2011 as an International 2. Increase interest of young people in Chemistry: Year of Chemistry. The Union invited all Adhering In order to ensure that first-rate minds continue to be Organizations, Associated Organizations and other attracted and challenged by the central science, IYC Chemical Societies to assist with a designation that will underscore the role of chemistry in managing would create a strategic opportunity to communicate natural resources sustainably. In partnership with the the central importance of Chemistry in every facet of United Nations, the International Year of Chemistry modern life. As a follow up to the IUPAC Council, the will make a strong educational contribution towards Federation of African Chemical Societies, through the goals of the United Nations Decade of Education *Official IYC Web site http://www.chemistry2011.org Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 05 for Sustainable Development, particularly in the key the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon. The Institute areas of health and environment. National and established a secretariat at the Headquarters, at international activities carried out during the Admantane House and organized a series of events International Year will emphasize the importance of with a view to achieving the objectives and goals of the Chemistry in helping to sustain the natural resource IYC 2011 with the cooperation of related base for life. organizations.

3. Generate enthusiasm for the creative future of Initiation of IYC 2011 activities in Sri Lanka chemistry: Humanity's understanding of the world is IYC activities were initiated in Sri Lanka with the grounded in our developing knowledge of chemistry. appointment of a Steering Committee in 2009/2010 by Creative opportunities to discover exciting new the Council headed by Professor S P Deraniyagala, the principles and applications continually appear as our then President of the IChemC. The Council then understanding of molecular properties grows. appointed Mr. N M S Hettigedara as the Chairman of Chemists will inevitably play a key role in overcoming the IYC Steering Committee. The IYC 2011 activities the challenges facing today's world, for example in were commenced in the month of July 2009. helping to address the United Nations Millennium goals. A deep understanding of the science is essential Members of the IYC 2011 Steering Committee Mr. N M SHettigedara (Hony Treasurer /IChemC) for developing molecular medicine, for creating new (Chairman) materials and sustainable sources of food and energy. Ms. D Attanayake (Secretary) Prof. M D P De Costa (President/ IChemC) 4. Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the award of Prof. J N O Fernando (Hony Dean/CCS) Noble Prize in Chemistry to Marie Curie: and the Prof. S Sotheeswaran (President Elect) 100th anniversary of the founding of the International Ms M N K D S Goonetilleke (Hony Sceretary / IChemC) Prof. S P Deraniyagala (Immediate Past President) Associations of Chemical Societies: The year 2011 Dr. (Mrs) L S R Arambewela (Hony. Asst. Treasurer marks the one-hundredth anniversary of the Nobel /IChemC) Prize in Chemistry awarded to Marie Sklodowska Prof.(Mrs) S Hewage (Editor/IChemC) Curie, recognizing her discovery of the elements Prof.(Mrs) S I Samarasinghe (Secretary International radium and polonium. Marie Curie's achievements Relations) Mr. K R Dayananda (Council Member) continue to inspire students, especially women to Dr.(Mrs) Nandani Ediriweera (Council Member) pursue careers in chemistry. The year 2011 also marks Dr. A A P Keerthi (Council Member) the one-hundredth anniversary of the founding in Paris Prof. (Mrs) J Liyanage (Council Member) of the International Association of chemical Societies Dr. U S K Weliwegamage (Senior Lecturer) to address the needs for international cooperation Mr. N I N S Nadarasa (Registrar/CCS) Mr. J M Ranasinghe Banda (Deputy Registrar/ CCS) among chemists and international standardization of Ms. Midha Masood (Adm. Assistant/ IChemC) nomenclature, atomic weights, physical constants and scientific communication. As for the support staff, Mr. A.M.Jayasekara, (former Director General of the National Aquaculture Goals of the IYC 2011* Development Authority, Consultant Capacity 1. Improve the understanding and appreciation of Building, Ministry of Nation Building & Estate chemistry by the public Infrastructure Development, Specialist on Food 2. Enhance international cooperation by serving as a Security Programme FAO/UN) joined the IYC 2011 focal point or information source for activities by programme in January 2011. national chemical societies, educational institutions, industry, governmental and nongovernmental organizations 3. Promote the role of chemistry in contributing to solutions to global challenges 4. Build capacity by engaging young people with scientific disciplines, especially the scientific method of analysis developed by hypothesis, experiment, analysis and conclusions

National Adhering Organization of Sri Lanka for IYC 2011 Establishment of the National Secretariat The National Adhering Organization for Sri Lanka is Since the appointment to the position of *Official IYC Web site http://www.chemistry2011.org Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 06 Chairman of the Steering Committee IYC 2011, Mr. Activities Performed N M S Hettigedara approached the Presidential Secretariat of Sri Lanka for the establishment of the Chemistry in Sri Lanka National Secretariat. The Secretary to the President January 2011 issue of of Sri Lanka and the Assistant Secretary gave their Chemistry in Sri Lanka was blessings and support which facilitated the dedicated to the IYC 2011. A coordination with other government institutions. number of articles were This paved the way for the smooth implementation published covering the current of the IYC activities with other relevant topics relevant to Chemistry organizations. which were also highlighted in the international activities of Activities planned for IYC 2011 IYC 2011. The topics included The Steering Committee deliberated in depth w o m e n i n C h e m i s t r y, and the following activities contributing to the medicine, energy, water, objectives of IYC were agreed upon to implement. environment, green chemistry, materials and food. The pride of place was 1. Official Inauguration of IYC 2011 given to Marie Curie recognizing the hundredth 2. CHEMEX 2011 Exhibition and trade fair anniversary of the award of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry 3. Issue of a commemoration stamp to her and to highlight the women's contributions to 4. Training seminars and workshops for industry chemistry. The articles were written by the Sri Lankan and the students experts in their relevant fields. 5. News releases and publication of articles and supplements IYC 2011 calendar 6. Publication of IYC special issues : ‘Chemistry A calendar depicting important events in the history of in Sri Lanka’ chemistry and chemical sciences was printed. The 7. Public Awareness programmes / cultural pictures in the calendar were well chosen and the programmes /chemstry magic shows explanations given on them were of high educational 8. Branding of IYC- production of IYC key tags, value to the general public and school going children. This tea shirts and pens, caps etc. initiative would have created a considerable enthusiasm 9. Production and distribution of Home organizer, and awareness in chemistry. school children daily organizer specially designed for branding of IYC 2011 at domestic level 10. Production and distribution of School bags, tea shirts and a diary 11. Printing of IYC 2011 Calendar 12. Development of IChemC & industry interrelations 13. Conducting 'chemistry days' at schools 14. Conducting essay competitions 15. Establishment of IYC 2011 scholarships 16. Establishment of mobile laboratory units 17. Conducting art competitions Other IYC productions 18. Increased coverage for all island interschool The IYC 2011 fliers, envelopes and letter heads bearing chemistry quiz programmes the IYC logo were designed and printed to use during the 19. ‘Education for All’- increase of publicity for year. The fliers were distributed along with other Diploma in Laboratory Technology course and documents to various agencies including press and Chemistry Graduateship programme electronic media organizations as well as to the sponsors. 20. Participating in the feeding of information to the A ball point marked IYC 2011 was produced and was IYC website: www.chemistry2011.org distributed among students and professionals. It was one 21. Publication of an IYC 2011 souvenir at the end of the gift items presented to the students who took part in of the year. the games at CHEMEX 2011 exhibition and the trade fair. T-shirts and caps with IYC logo were produced and distributed.

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 07 IYC 2011 Commemoration Stamp the IYC 2011 Steering Committee, Mr. N M S An IYC stamp and a first day cover were Hettigedara. The keynote address on “Chemical designed to commemorate the IYC 2011. research in technology development” was delivered The commemorative stamp was printed by Dr. A M Mubarak, Director, Industrial Technology by the Sri Lanka Philatelic Bureau in Institute of Sri Lanka. collaboration with the Institute of As the Chief Guest, the Honourable Minister Chemistry Ceylon. The stamp included delivered a valuable speech highlighting the the logos of IYC and IChemC. To importance of chemistry in the national development. commemorate the centenary of the award This was followed by the address of the guest of of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry to Marie honour, Professor J N O Fernando, Hony. Dean, Curie, her portrait was included in the stamp. In College of Chemical Sciences. Concluding remarks recognizing the contributions made by the late were given by the President elect of the IChemC, Prof. Professor M U S Sultanbawa, one of the most Sotheeswaran. distinguished chemists produced by Sri Lanka was also included in the stamp. It also has the image of the world CHEMEX 2011 Educational Exhibition Trade Fair famous Sri Lankan national gem-the Blue Sapphire- CHEMEX 2011 Educational Exhibition and Trade together with the structure of one of the principle Fair was ceremonially inaugurated on the 27th January chemical constituents, aluminium oxide (Al2O3). 2011 by the Honourable Minister of Scientific Affaires. CHEMEX 2011 was organized by the IYC Ceremonial Inauguration of IYC 2011 National Secretariat of the Institute of Chemistry In keeping with the official opening ceremony at Ceylon as a part of the IYC activities to celebrate the UNESCO headquarters in Paris from January 27th-28th achievement of chemistry and chemical sciences. 2011, the IYC 2011 in Sri Lanka was ceremonially inaugurated at the Bandaranaike International Conference Hall (BMICH) in Colombo on 27th January 2011 by the Senior Minister of Scientific Affaires, Professor Tissa Vitarana by lighting the traditional oil

First day programme (27th January 2011) The theme for the first day of the CHEMEX 2011 was “Chemical Research and Technology Development”. The first day inauguration of CHEMEX 2011 was held lamp in the presence of distinguished invited guests, together with the Inauguration of IYC 2011 at the scientists, ICHEMC members, industrialists and a BMICH. The exhibition was opened by the Honorable large number of students. Senior Minister of Scientific Affaires. The welcome address was delivered by the President of the Institute of Chemistry, Professor M D Second day programme (28th January 2011) P De Costa followed by the address of the Chairman of The theme for the second day was “Chemistry in day to day life”. The inauguration was held at the Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Exhibition Centre. The welcome address was delivered by Professor M D P De Costa, President of the Institute of Chemistry. The keynote address on “Chemistry in day to day life” was delivered by Professor S Sotheeswaran, President Elect of the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon. Mr. R P Perera, Secretary General, Sri Lanka National Commission for UNESCO who graced the occasion as the chief guest opened the exhibition and addressed

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 08 the gathering explaining the role of the UNESCO and Professor J N O Fernando. The chief guest Professor its commitment in assisting the IYC 2011 events. M D P De Costa opened the exhibition and addressed Thereafter the guest of honour, Professor H D the gathering. Addresses were delivered by four guests Gunawardhana, Senior Professor of the College of of honour, Dr. R O B Wijesekera, Professor E R Janz, Chemical Sciences addressed the gathering. The Mr. T Kandasamy, H S M Pieris, Past Presidents of the concluding remarks were made by Professor S I Institute of Chemistry Ceylon representing different Samarasinghe, Secretary, International Relations, IChemC.

eras of the Institute. Mr. K R Dayananda read the address of Professor Janz in his absence. The concluding remarks were made by Mr. N M S th Third day programme (29 January 2011) Hettigedara, Chairman of the Steering Committee, The theme for the third day was “Chemistry for IYC 2011. Industry”. The inauguration of the 3rd day was also held at the Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Exhibition The IYC Stamp and the First Day Cover were Centre. The welcome address was delivered by Mr. M ceremonially cancelled with the participation of the R M Haniffa, Secretary, IChemC. The keynote address Director, Sri Lanka Philatelic Bureau, Dean, College on “Chemistry for Industry” was delivered by Mr. of Chemical Sciences, President, Institute of Rajitha Kariyawasan, Managing Director, Haycarb Chemistry Ceylon, invited guests and students. The

PLC. The chief guest, Mr. A G H R Samaraweeera, family members of Professor M U S Sultanbawa Chairman, Maliban Biscuit Manufacturers Ltd opened (whose portrait appears on the stamp) were among the the exhibition and addressed the gathering followed by distinguished guests. The First Day Covers were the guest of honour Mr. Asanga Ranasinghe, Director, presented to the distinguished invitees by Mr. N M S Unilever Sri Lanka (Pvt) Ltd. The concluding remarks Hettigedera, Chairman, IYC National Secretariat, were made by Dr. Sujatha Hewage, Editor of the Professor M D P De Costa, President, Institute of IChemC. Chemistry Ceylon and Professor J N O Fernando, Honorary Dean, College of Chemical Sciences. Fourth day programme (30th January 2011) The theme for the final day was “Chemical Education Other activities at CHEMEX 2011 for the wellbeing of society”. The welcome address was delivered by Ms. M N K D S Goonetilleke, Inter-university debates Secretary, IChemC. The keynote address on Interuniversity debate competitions were held on the “Professional chemical education for the wellbeing of fourth day (30th April) on various topics. The topics society for the knowledge based era” was delivered by debated were: Development of tertiary educational Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 09 opportunities outside the state sector is essential for Sri 2. ‘Sri Lanka Raw Materials for Industry’ by Dr. S Lanka; Study of Chemistry at special degree level Mohandas, Consultant to Greentech require an adequate contribution of physics; Analytical 3. ‘Tea and Health’ by Dr. Nimal Punyasiri, Senior chemistry is the central science; Far too many taught Research Officer, Tea Research Institute postgraduate courses in the chemical science are 4. ‘Opportunities for Chemistry Graduates’ by Dr. offered in Sri Lanka; Sri Lanka's development cannot S Weliwegamage, Senior Lecturer, Institute of take place unless there is an adequate budgetary Chemistry Ceylon. contribution to science and technology; Profession of 5. ‘Healthy Food Habit for Prevention of Disease’ Chemistry is more important to general public by Mr. N M S Hettigedara, Consultant Dietitian, and Nutritionist, compared to medicine; Chemical testing of food stuffs sold at market should be made compulsory; Use of Bio 6. ‘Water and Life’ by Mr. S. Perasiriyan, Retired pesticides to farmers should be made compulsory. The Chief Chemist, Ceylon Electricity Board. students from Colombo, Peradeniya, Sri Jayawardenepura, Kelaniya, Ruhuna, Jaffna All Island Interschool Chemistry Quiz Contest- 2010/2011 universities and the College of Chemical Sciences Final round of the above competition involving 4 participated. The winning debating team was from the schools selected at the second round was conducted on University of Colombo and the University of Sri 27th January 2011 during the CHEMEX 2011 exhibition and trade fair. A total number of 124 schools applied for the first round. The preliminary written test of the chemistry quiz competition was held on 13th November 2010 at 21 examination centres island wide. Eighteen (18) schools were selected for the second round of the competition which was held at the Adamantane House on 21st January 2011. Four (4) schools were selected for the final round which was conducted on 27th University of Colombo Team January at BMICH during CHEMEX 2011 Exhibition and Trade Fair. Winners were Royal College, Jayawardenepura came second and the Institute of Colombo, Ananda College, Colombo (1st runner up) Chemistry was third. Trinity College, Kandy (2nd runner up) and Holy Family Convent, Bambalapitiya (3rd runner up). Free Public lectures copies of Chemistry in Sri Lanka, a publication of the Well organized public lectures were held by eminent Institute of Chemistry were sent to all the schools chemists at the CHEMEX 2011 venue with a view to which participated at the Inter School chemistry Quiz.

Australian National Chemistry Quiz programme Above examination was held on 31st July 2010 in various parts of the country. 15463 students from 140 schools from both the Junior Division (Year 11) and the Senior Division (Year 12) participated in the examination. This examination was held for the 14th time in Sri Lanka.

increasing awareness of the importance of chemistry in industrial development as well as in the day to day life, thus contributing to the fulfillment of IYC 2011 objectives. A large number of people attended these lectures. The topics covered and the lecturers were: 1. ‘Toxic Substances and Prevention of Toxicity’ by Dr. R P Perera, Senior Lecturer, University of Colombo

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 10 The Fourteenth Award Ceremony of the Australian chemistry demonstrations, as well as kiddies play, National Chemistry Quiz Competition was held on musical programmes, dances and many other 27th January 2011 as a special IYC activity at the entertainments. Chemistry magic shows as well as Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference traditional magic shows, orchestra and traditional Hall (BMICH) with the participation of a large dances etc., provided much entertainment to the number of students, general public and industrialists. visitors. Therefore, CHEMEX 2011 was indeed very Introductory speech was delivered by Prof. J N O much more than a mere exhibition. Fernando, Dean of the College of Chemical Sciences. Over 100 exhibition stalls depicted various aspects of Prof. Tuley de Silva, retired Special Technical chemistry and chemical industrial products. A large Adviser, Chemical Industries Branch, UNIDO, number of students congregated around the stalls to Vienna, Austria, who had been the former Professor of see the chemical demonstrations conducted by the Chemistry and the Dean of the Faculty of Applied College of Chemical Sciences and the principal Science, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Universities in Sri Lanka and listen to key note Lanka, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Prizes addresses and guest speeches delivered by eminent and Awards were presented to the winning students by chemists and industrialists in Sri Lanka. The theme of him. In the Senior Division there were three best the IYC 2011, 'Chemistry- Our Life Our future'' had no performers who answered 29 out of 30 questions doubt deeply penetrated into the minds of younger correctly. They were Sonali Mendis (Colombo generation and the general public through the International School, Mithun Shanmukaratnam exhibition. Judgment on the best stall of each category (Colombo International School) and Chelvaniththilan was also made by an expert panel of judges appointed Sivapalan (St. Patricks College, Jaffna). There was by the Steering Committee. one Best performer, Thimira Subasingha (Royal The stall presented by the students of the Department College) in the Junior Division who answered 30 out of Chemistry, University of Kelaniya was selected of 30 questions correctly. as the best effort in reflection of the theme, chemistry based on three (3) aspects namely, Science Day Drama Competition education, teaching and demonstration. The A series of drama competitions were held earlier Labmasters Pvt Ltd presented the best attractive among the secondary school students under the stall based on its creativity and aesthetic value. The sponsorship of the National Science Foundation of Sri best student presentation stall belonged to the Lanka and in collaboration with the Institute of Royal College, Colombo. Among the stall presented Chemistry Ceylon. Opportunities were provided to by the students of the College of Chemical Sciences, those students who were successful to stage their stall no. 70, 71, 78 & 79 were selected as the best dramas at the CHEMEX 2011 Exhibition site. industrial chemistry stalls, stalls no. 18, 74 & 75 were selected as the best environmental chemistry stalls and stalls no. 88, 89 & 90 were selected as the best pharmaceutical chemistry stalls. Hybrid Technologies was selected as the Best Commercial Advertising stall.

The dramas attracted a large number of audiences contributing to the goals of the IYC 2011. The dramas oriented towards chemistry education imparted a good knowledge to the audience on the use of chemistry in day to day life. The Exhibition and Trade Fair was successfully CHEMEX 2011 achievements concluded on 30th January 2011 accruing much CHEMEX 2011 exhibition was unique in that, it benefit, especially to the younger generation of the consisted of multifarious activities such as seminars, country. It has been estimated that a good cross debates, chemistry magic shows, dramas and section of the society, around 200,000 people

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 11 consisting of school children, university students, Award of Certificates businessmen, industrialists, academics and the Ceremony to distribute the Certificates of general public from all the three communities have Appreciation to those who contributed to the success visited the CHEMEX 2011. Participation of teachers of CHEMEX 2011 was held on 26th February 2011 at and school children from the areas of North and East the P. P. G. L. Siriwardene Auditorium of the Institute such as Jaffna, Mullaitivu, Akkaraipattu and of Chemistry Ceylon. The occasion was graced by Batticaloa too at this event was of special significance. Prof. M. D. P. De Costa, President Institute of Chemistry Ceylon, Prof. J. N. O. Fernando, Hony. Dean, College of Chemical Sciences and Mr. N. M. S. Hettigedara, Chairman, Steering Committee, National Secretariat (Sri Lanka) IYC 2011. The services of the staff of the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon and the teachers and students of the College of Chemical Sciences who worked day and night for the successful conclusion of the IYC inauguration ceremony and 'CHEMEX 2011' Exhibition and Trade Fair (which were held at BMICH Sri Lanka from 26- 30th January 2011) were appreciated and certificates In addition to displaying various industrial products were awarded for their performances. It was attended and services to a broader cross section of the society, by more than 400 students and staff members of the the Exhibition & Trade Fair contributed much to the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon/ College of Chemical achievement of three major goals of the International Sciences. Year of Chemistry (IYC 2011) namely, increase of A special speech on ' Supporting the Global Chemistry public appreciation of chemistry in meeting world Community' was delivered by Dr. Neville V Reed, needs, increase of interest in chemistry among young Managing Director, Science Education and people and generate enthusiasm for the creative future Industry, Royal Society of Chemistry UK. His of chemistry. The principle target group, the younger interesting speech was centered on practical aspects of generation and the students as well as teachers were Chemical Sciences. Because of his unique way of able to accrue maximum benefits. The feedback presentation as well as its very useful content, it received from the general public, industrial sector, attracted many commendations and cheers from the academic institutions and students from schools audience. clearly indicates that the exhibition was very fruitful Prof. J.N.O.Fernando Dean, College of Chemical to them and the achievements are considerable and Sciences, thanked the IYC Chairman, Mr. N. M. S. that, they are eagerly looking for such opportunities in Hettigedara, for his dedication, enthusiasm and hard the future too. work. Mr. Hettigedara in his speech thanked Prof. J. N. O. Fernando for his guidance and advice in IYC Raffle Draw activities. He thanked the staff and students and The Dean, College of Chemical Sciences organized requested them to extend the same support for the rest the IYC Raffle draw which became very popular and it of the IYC activities too which are lined up for the provided attractive prices to the winners. The first year, the next immediate activity being IYC cultural three winners were Mr. Sujeewa Liyanrathne, Ms. U S programme- celebration of Sinhala and Tamil New K Manike and Mr. D Bandaranayake. Year, which was scheduled for the 3rd of April 2011.

Avurudu Asiriya - IYC 2011 Cultural Programme This unique cultural programme was held on the 3rd of April 2011 from 9.00 am to 8.00 pm at Janakala Kendraya, Pelewatte, Battaramulla with the participation of more than 600 persons including members of the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon, visitors, family members, students and children. Being a joint effort of the Steering Committee of the National Secretariat (IYC 2011) Sri Lanka and the Social Affairs Committee of the Institute of Chemistry

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 12 Ceylon, Janakala Kendraya of the Ministry of the event. The management of the Galle Face Hotel National Heritage was selected as it was an ideal venue undertook to exhibit the leaflets at their reception counter. The students of the College of Chemical Sciences guided by the staff actively took part in the events conducted throughout the day. A special feature was the establishment of two models of Sinhala and Tamil traditional village homes. The well decorated Sinhala 'home' was made very attractive with a model Sinhala 'family' dressed in traditional attire and with traditional Sinhala sweetmeats as well as a traditional oil lamp and betel leaves. The well decorated Tamil traditional 'home' had a model Tamil 'family' dressed in traditional costumes. Traditional Hindu foods were available. It for the event. Several buildings and the premises also had a traditional oil lamp and decorations with (provided free of charge by the Secretary, Ministry of cadjan leaves and a Kolam. The Sinhala Avurudu National Heritage) full of greenery and garden benches rituals included a ceremony of anointing oil (traditional were available for the programme. It provided a good Avurudu ritual of application of herbal medicinal oils atmosphere for the enthusiastic crowd to enjoy on the head by an elderly person in the family) a special together. Additional facilities such as Laksala, Batik feature, which was organized by the IYC Chairman shops and other tourist shops as well as a sales centre himself. for Sri Lankan products such as traditional herbal drinks, kitul juggery, kitul treacle were available. Maliban Milk Products Ltd., provided milk products at a concessional price.

Most of the students, especially female students of the College of Chemical Sciences were dressed in colourful village dresses (eg. flower printed coloured Avurudu Asiriya' Cultural Programme was frocks) and male students (Avurudu sarongs) specially ceremonially opened at 9.00 am by the President of the suited for the occasion, which enhanced traditional Institute of Chemistry and the members of the Council, village atmosphere throughout the day. The contestants President of the National Steering Committee IYC for Avurudu Kumari (New Year Princess) and Avurudu 2011 and the Chairman and members of the Social Kumaraya (New Year Prince) were in attractive Affairs Committee of the Institute of Chemistry costumes. The music consisted of traditional Jana gee Ceylon by lighting the traditional oil lamp. Among the (folk songs) and special Avurudu songs providing guests attended were the Secretary General of the Sri much more diverse entertainment to the cheerful Lanka National Commission for UNESCO and the Additional Secretary to the Ministry of National Heritage. Several staff members of the Ministry of Technology and Research and the members of the media associations and several members of the Bar Association were also present. A Japanese Professor and his family who have been in Sri Lanka for over 10 years as well as a few tourists were among those who visited the event. The Sri Lanka Tourism Bureau facilitated communication with the tourist agencies and the leading hotels in Colombo to attract tourists for Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 13 crowd. selection of Avurudu Kumari (princess of the New The grand cultural show conducted by the Sahan Year) and Avurudu Kumaraya (Prince of the New Ranwala Cultural Foundation included very colorful Year). The contesting students of the College, well prepared for the event with colorful special costumes participated at the contest before a panel of judges. The contestants had to undertake various performances which were carried out amidst unending cheers of the crowd. Plenty of Avurudu sweetmeats including, traditional kiribath, kevum, kokis, aluwa, aasmi, and plantains were available for the participants. Lunch and beverages were available for sale. Maliban Milk Foods Ltd undertook a mobile sales promotion programme by selling Maliban products at a cheaper traditional dances, songs and music. The dialogues rate. gave a message to the young generation on patriotism As a result of this cultural event, the students and the and that they should not forget their valuable cultural staff gained another ideal opportunity to work traditions even if they are living in a foreign country. together in a team spirit and enjoy the variety of The staff, students, members of the Institute and their events organized by the Institute. In view of the high family members enjoyed the cultural show very much. degree of support gained from the members of the The students of the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon, Council and the members of the staff, the entire guided by the Social Affairs Committee organized a programme was a tremendous success. It was indeed

variety of entertainment activities. 'Breaking of the an opportunity for all the staff members, Sinhala, clay pots', 'Catching of eggs', 'Filling of bottles with Tamil and Muslim students and their family members water' by student groups, 'Blowing of balloons', to come, relax and enjoy together. The excellent experience gained by the students through team work will brighten their future social life. The New Year traditions such as demonstration of traditional

'Eating of buns', 'Kotta pora competition', 'Swinging Onchilla', searching for the hidden stranger and entertainment interviews etc. were some of the fascinating events conducted amid cheers of the crowd. The Raban entertainment programme was conducted by the cultural team of the Sri Lanka Police. The most attractive and colourful event was the

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 14 avurudu rituals in the model Sinhala and Tamil homes interested in chemistry attended the function. Deputy have no doubt increased the awareness of our age old Director of Education Mr. S. Udayakumar traditional cultural values leading to enhancement of represented the Zonal Director of Education and Mr. strong bonds and harmony among our younger V. Selvarajah graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. generation. There were ample opportunities for The function was presided over by Mrs. Rohini interaction among chemistry professionals and the Karuneswaran (Asst Director of Education, Science). members of other professional bodies. Dr. S. Mangaleswaran (General Medical Practitioner As for our publicity programmes, a colourful leaflet on from Kandy), Dr. N. Sivapalan, (Department of 'Avurudu Asiriya' celebration was printed and made C h e m i s t r y , U n i v e r s i t y o f J a f f n a ) , available to over 45 professional associations in Sri Mr.K.Natanasabapathy (Institute of Chemistry Lanka, several media organizations and a few tourist Ceylon), Manager Hatton National Bank (Nelliady) hotels (through the arrangements made with Sri Lanka and Manager Hatton National Bank (Point Pedro) Tourism). The 'Avurudu Asiriya' Sinhala and Tamil were the guest speakers. Dr. Sisira Weliwegamage, New Year Programmes were telecasted by the Senior. Lecturer, Institute of Chemistry Ceylon HERITAGE TV and TNL on the arrangements made delivered a lecture titled, 'Water and Life'. by the Ministry of National Heritage. Press releases were sent to various media organizations. The Sri Collaboration with other Agencies Lanka Tourism made special arrangements to publish The following organizations have been involved in the event through the Ministry of Information on their IYC activities in various forms such as providing web site. The details of the 'Avurudu Asiriya' advice and guidance, cooperation and collaboration, programme along with pictures from a book written by sponsoring, providing donations, providing stalls etc. Prof. G. B. Dissanayaka were published on IYC web State Organizations: site, www.Chemistry2011.org. which has been already Presidential Secretariat enriched with IYC activities so far undertaken in Sri Ministry of Technology and Research Ministry of National Heritage Lanka, thus bringing much reputation to the profession Ministry of Information of chemistry, Institute of Chemistry Ceylon, College of Ministry of Posts and Telecommunication Chemical Sciences and the Graduate Chemists and students while contributing to the achievements of IYC International Organizations 2011 objectives as laid down by the UN. Sri Lanka National Commission for UNESCO The generous support extended by the Secretary Academic Institutions General of the Sri Lanka National Commission for Institute of Chemistry Ceylon UNESCO, Secretary and the Additional Secretary of College of Chemical Sciences the Ministry of National Heritage and the Ministry of Leading Universities of Sri Lanka Information, the staff of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau and Janakala Kendraya, was Government Statutory Organizations National Science Foundation invaluable in making the event successful. The National Aquaculture Development Authority Maliban Milk Products Ltd, National Heritage TV, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau Independent Television Networks Ltd. and Sahan Bandaranaike International Conference Hall Ranwala Arts Foundation extended their support and (BMICH) cooperation towards the successful conclusion of Philatelic Bureau of Sri Lanka Avurudu Asiriya- IYC 2011 cultural programme. Sri Lanka Tourism Sri Lanka Exhibition and Convention Bureau

IYC 2011 celebration in the Northern Province Private Sector Industrialists The International Year of Chemistry 2011 was Unilevers (Sri Lanka), celebrated on a grand scale by the Zonal Education Maliban Biscuit Manufactories Ltd, Department of Vadamarachchy in the north on 24th June Maliban Milk Products ltd, 2011 at J/Methodist Girls School, Point Pedro. Sevenseas UK, Abbot Diagnostics Vadamarachchy Education Zone was the first to Media Organizations organize IYC -2011 celebrations in the Northern Independent Television Networks, Province of Sri Lanka. Sirasa TV, All the science (chemistry) teachers and A/L science Swarnawahini TV, students (chemistry) of the school attended the Associated Newspapers Ceylon Ltd.(Lake House), Lakhanda Broadcasting Service, function. The number of participants was more than Nelus Advertising Agency 300. Even people from the adjoining areas who are

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 15 Official IYC Web site: place on record with deep appreciation and gratitude T h e I Y C 2 0 1 1 w e b s i t e , that, the success of the Exhibition and Trade Fair was http://www.chemistry2011.org provides all the due to the combined effort of staff of the College of information on IYC activities conducted by the Chemical Sciences and the Institute of Chemistry countries which are taking part in the celebrations. The Ceylon. President's and the Council's right choice of National Secretariat IYC 2011 (Sri Lanka) has taken selecting Ms. Dulanjalee Attanayake one of our own steps to feed information and update this website graduates to serve as the Secretary to the Steering pertaining to the IYC activities of Sri Lanka regularly. Committee greatly facilitated IYC activities. The information given was supported by descriptive Appointment of Mr. A. M. Jayasekara, former photographs. The details of colorful and informative Director General of the National Aquaculture IYC stamps that have been printed by several countries Development Authority (NAQDA) who had also been including Sri Lanka are also available on this website. a Consultant to FAO/UN, by the President of IChemC and the Dean of CCS, expedited our work. The Interaction with other international agencies on preparatory activities which were lagging behind and IYC matters: progressing only at a very slower phase could be Sri Lanka National Commission for UNESCO accelerated due to his efforts. Contributions from Ms. (UNESCO is one of the global partners) is the principal Attanayaka and Mr. Jayasekara to the success of IYC international organization which supported IYC 2011 are greatly appreciated. activities in Sri Lanka. The National Secretariat (Sri Further, I wish to study the strengths and weaknesses Lanka) IYC 2011 made linkages with other agencies if any, in organizing the Exhibition and Trade Fair which were contributing to the global IYC activities. which was in fact, the first of its kind to be held in Sri Following are two messages received from two such Lanka. The lessons learnt in such a study will be of agencies: immense importance in the implementation of similar 1. “Thank you so much for contributing Sri Lanka's activities in the future. stamps for my article on IYC stamps in Chemical & Engineering News. The article appears in Institute of Chemistry Ceylon Gold Medal Award t o d a y ' s i s s u e o f t h e m a g a z i n e ” For the first time in its history, the Institute of http://pubs.acs.org/cen/newscripts/89/8911newsc Chemistry Ceylon (IChemC), awarded a Gold Medal ripts. html? featured=1 to a relatively young Chemist, Mr. N.M.S.Hettigedara Linda Wang, Associate Editor, Chemical & for his dedicated honorary services to the Institute. E n g i n e e r i n g N e w s , 2 0 2 - 8 7 2 - A graduate of the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon, he 4579,[email protected], www.cen-online.org obtained a MSc degree in Food and Nutrition 2. “I have carried a post on M.U.S Sultanbawa On Chemistry in 1996 from the University of Keleniya. My website http://www.collectindianstamps.com/ He was registered as a qualified Nutritionist in 1997 2011/03/sri-lankan-stamp-on-international- by the Sri Lanka Medical Council and became the first year.html Please feel to share them among person to register and practice nutrition and dietetics Chemistry Community in Sri Lanka. Kumar K Nair, Trivandrum, India While rendering his services to the State Pharmaceutical Corporation, he was mobilized to the Note from the Chairman Steering Committee Police Department as a Nutritionist & R/ASP in 2001. A significant undertaking such as CHEMEX 2011 He also serves as a Consultant Nutritionist to the must require a significant support and inspiration as Army Medical Services and a visiting Dietitian to the well, to succeed. I wish to place on record with deep Cardiac Rehabilitation Programme of the Institute of appreciation that, CHEMEX 2011 was given every Cardiology, National Hospital of Sri Lanka. He is a encouragement by Prof. J N O Fernando, Dean, consultant to the Presidential Security Division and College of Chemical Sciences, Prof. M D P de Costa, serves as a Nutritionist / Nutritional Chemist. President, Institute of Chemistry Ceylon and Prof. S Apart from his academic achievements, Mr. Sotheeswaran, President elect, IChemC. The members Hettigedara's services to the IChemC have been of the Council provided support and guidance to the considerable. He is an elected member of the Council Steering Committee and personally helped me in many of IChemC since 1994. Mr. Hettigedara's services as of the activities. All the academic and non academic the Joint Secretary since 2004 and as the Hony staff and the students of the College of Chemical Treasurer since 2008 are commendable. As the Sciences provided a valuable service. Chairman of the Steering Committee, International The IYC Steering Committee headed by me, wishes to Year of Chemistry (IYC 2011) he organized the highly

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 16 successful Exhibition and Trade Fair ‘CHEMEX Dissanayake, Director, Institute of Fundamental 2011’. Studies on, 'From rocks to community health-Tracing the pathway of an element'. The vote of thanks was delivered by Professor S. Sotheeswaran, President Elect.

Mr. N.M.S.Hettigedara has brought much identity, honour and reputation to IChemC both nationally and internationally through IYC programmes. His initiative and innovativeness in taking charge of IYC Interschool Chemistry Quiz Awards, College of activities with great vigour and enthusiasm and Chemical Sciences Student Awards, Merit providing honorary services to the Institute are highly Scholarships and Distinguished Service Award, commendable. He is indeed an example and a role IChemC gold Medal and Long Service Award were model for all Graduate Chemists to emulate by not presented at the opening ceremony. About 250 forgetting one's academic parent. Mr. Hettigedara was scientists and students participated at the Opening conferred with IChemC Gold Medal at the Annual Ceremony. Annual General meeting was held at the th Sessions of the Institute which were held on 16 June same venue. 2011 at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Annual Sessions 2011 The Institute of Chemistry Ceylon celebrated its 70th Anniversary simultaneously with its 40th Annual Sessions on 16th-17th June 2011 at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute, Colombo. This important occasion was graced by the eminent Chemist, Professor J. A. Pincock from Dalhousie University Canada as the Chief Guest. The Theme Seminar and the Annual Dinner were held on the 17th of June 2011. Technical Sessions were held on 16th and 18th June. 17 research papers were presented by the researchers in the areas of chemical sciences.

The Inaugural ceremony was held on 16th June at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute. The theme for the year was 'Chemistry for the Wellbeing of Society'. Professor M D P De Costa delivered the Presidential address titled, “Chemistry and Society”. The Chief The theme seminar on 'Photochemistry for the well- Guest, Professor J A Pincock addressed the gathering th being of society' was held on 17 June 2011 at the Sri on the theme, “Better living through Chemistry'. Lanka Foundation Institute, Colombo. The Invited speech was delivered by Professsor C B Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 17 presentations were made by the eminent scientists who industrial research. are experts in their relevant fields. Training Seminars conducted 1. Packaging for food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries Training seminar on Packaging, for Food, Pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries was held on 6th May 2011 from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm at Adamantane House, Rajagiriya. Welcome address was delivered by Professor M D P De Costa, President of IChemC and the following topics were covered at the seminar. Food Packaging and its Role, Regulations and Welcome Address and Introduction to Safety: Mrs. Malini Malawaratchie (Food Photochemistry: Prof. M D P De Costa, (President, Technologist, Food Advisory Committee, Ministry of Institute of Chemistry Ceylon), Organic Health), Glass Packaging for Beverages: Mr. Photochemistry, a Personal History: Professor J A D.A.M.Aresakularatne (Quality Assurance, R&D Pincock ( Department of Chemistry, Dalhousie Manager, Ceylon Cold Stores), Flexible Packaging in University, Canada), Photochemistry for Solar Food: Mr. Abhaya Senevirathne (Packaging Cells: Professor O A Ileperuma (Department of Consultant, Tetra Pak packaging) & Mr. Migara Chemistry, University of Peradeniya), Photochemical Dunuwila, (Business Development Manager, Tetra Sensors: Dr. R. Senthilnithy (Senior Lecturer, Pack packaging), Food Labelling and Advertising S o u t h e a s t e r n U n i v e r s i t y ) , I n d u s t r i a l Regulations 2005: Mrs. Malini Malawaratchie (Food Photochemistry: Professor Pradeep Jayaweera Technologist, Food Advisory Committee, Ministry of (Department of Chemistry, University of Sri Health), Cosmetics and Packaging Interactions: Mr. Jayawardenepura), Photochemistry in Medicine: Dr. Abhaya Senevirathne (Packaging Consultant), Ranil de Silva (Department of Anatomy, University of Pharmaceutical Packaging: Mr. Upali Bandara Sri Jayawardenepura), Photochemistry in (General Manager, Production Operations, Astron Nanotechnology: Professor K M Nalin de Silva Ltd). (Department of Chemistry, University of Colombo), Photochemistry in the Atmosphere: Professor 2. Nanotechnology and its Applications K.R.R. Mahanama (Head, Department of Chemistry, A Training Seminar on Nanotechnology and its University of Colombo). There was a lively discussion application was held on 30 September 2011 at the at the end of the seminar. Institute of Chemistry Ceylon with the participation of over 100 industrial representatives and graduate International Conference students. The Chairman of the organizing Committee An International Conference on Chemical Sciences was Dr. Sisira Weliwegamage, Senior Lecturer, will be held on 20th - 22nd June 2012 in Colombo, College of Chemical Sciences. organized by the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon. The The Chief Guest Hon. Tissa Vitarana, Senior theme of the conference is “Role of Chemistry Minister of Scientific Affairs was pleased with the Research in National Development”. achievements made by the Institute of Chemistry The major aim of the conference will be to discuss how Ceylon over the years and he thanked the Institute for chemistry meets the global challenges of clean air, safe water, healthy food, dependable medicine from plants, and how the chemical education imparted to our students achieve the UN Millennium development goals. The conference will therefore, bring together chemists, environmentalists, food scientists, educationists and other scientists on a common platform to exchange ideas and discuss the role of chemistry research in national development. Topics to be covered include: Natural Products Chemistry, Food Sciences, Environment Chemistry, Chemical Education and New technological developments and

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 18 organizing this important seminar. 3. Sustainable Development in Quality, Safety and Addresses were delivered by Prof. S. Sotheeswaran, Health Aspects of Tea the President of the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon and A training seminar on the above topic was held on 2nd Prof. J.N.O.Fernando, Hony. Rector of the College of November 2011 from 8.15 am to 4.00 pm at the Chemical Sciences and Mr. N.M.S.Hettigedara, Adamantane House, Rajagiriya. Chairman of the Steering Committee IYC 2011(Sri Welcome address was delivered by Prof. S. Lanka). Mr. Hettigedera explained the progress made Sotheeswaran ( President, IChem C) and presentations by the National Secretariat towards achieving the were made on the following Topics. goals of IYC 2011. Therefore, this seminar gave an opportunity to create awareness of the IYC 2011 activities among a good cross section of scientists. Keynote address on 'Nanotechnology towards basic human needs' was delivered by Prof. RMG Rajapakshe, Senior Professor in Chemistry, University of Peradeniya and visiting Professor, Research Institute of Electronics, Schizuoka University Japan. Following presentations were made:

Applications of good agricultural practices (GAP) in plantations: Dr. K M Mohotti (Head, Entomology Division, Tea Research Institute), Post harvest management of tea: Dr. M A Wijeratne (Officer in charge, TRI, Low Country Station), Processing, value addition and product development: Mr. G A A R Perera, (Research Officer,TRI), Constituents of tea, their taste and health promoting properties: Dr. Tissa Amarakoon (Univerisity of Kelaniya), Principles and historical background: Dr. M N S Application of packaging technology to sustain Kottegoda (Senior Lecturer, University of Sri quality and safety of tea: Mr. Abhaya Seneviratne Jayawardenepura and Senior Scientist, Sri Lanka (Consultant), Quality Assurance of Tea: Dr. P A N Institute of Nanotechnology), Nanotechnology Punayasiri (Senior Research Officer, Biochemistry towards new materials development: Dr. Jeewantha Division, TRI), Role of professional chemists in tea Premaratne (Senior Lecturer, University of Kelaniya industry: Dr. L S K Hettiarachchi (Deputy Director, and Senior Scientist, Sri Lanka Institute of Research, TRI). Nanotechnology), Nanotechnology in energy production and storage: Dr. A R Kumarasinghe, 4. Toxicology: Clinical, Industrial and Senior Lecturer, Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka Environmental Applications and Senior Scientist, Sri Lanka Institute of A training seminar on Toxicology was held on 20th Nanotechnology), Nanotechnology:Liquid Crystals: January 2012 from 8.30 to 5.00 pm at the Adamantane Prof. A D L C Perera (Professor in Chemistry, House, Institute of Chemistry, Rajagiriya. Chief Guest University of Peradeniya), Nanotechnology research at the event was the Hon. Pavithra Wanniarachchi, at University of Peradeniya:Medical industrial and Minister of Technology and Research. There were other applications: Prof. R M G Rajapakshe (Senior about 100 participants at the seminar. Professor S Professor in Chemistry, Visiting professor, Research Sotheeswaran delivered the welcome address which Institute of Electronics, Shizuoka University Japan), was followed by the Minister's address. The Keynote Carbon nanotubes and their applications: Dr. address was delivered by Dr. Rohan P Perera (Senior Varuni Seneviratne (Senior Lecturer, Department of lecturer, Department of Chemistry, University of Physics, University of Peradeniya), Instrumentation Colombo & Director, National Authority for the in Nanotechnology: Mr. C H Manoratne (Research Implementation of Chemical Weapons). Officer, Industrial Technology Institute), Following Presentations were made by the experts in Nanotechnology and Environment: Dr. U S K the relevant fields. Weliwegamage (Senior Lecturer, College of Chemical Toxicology of pesticides and other agrochemicals: Sciences, Institute of Chemistry Ceylon). Dr. U S K Weliwegamage (Senior Lecturer, college of Chemical Sciences, IChemC),: Plant toxins and their

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 19 health effects Prof. S Sotheeswarn (Senior Professor, issues related to science education and its College of Chemical Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, improvement for better tomorrow. Ceylon), Molecular toxicology and its applications: “Role of National Academy of Science Sri Lanka on Prof. R S Dassanayake (Department of Chemistry, promoting science education” was discussed by Prof. University of Colombo), Forensic toxicology: Prof. Sunethra Athukorala; “Major Challenges faced in Ravindra Fernando (Senior Professor, Faculty of developing teaching methodologies & Medicine, University of Colombo), Natural and implementing” were discussed by Mr. Anthony; synthetic toxins in food: Mr. E G Somapala (Rtd. Director Science Education NIE. “Role of Ministry Government Analyst), Industrial Pollution and toxic on Exemplary science education” was discussed by effects: (Dr. U S K Weliwegamage, Senior Lecturer, an officer from the Ministry of Education and Prof. College of Chemical Sciences, Institute of Chemistry Sunethra Karunaratne, a senior educationalist spoke Ceylon), Animal toxins: Dr. Sivajini Bieshman regarding the “Science Education Outreach for (Senior Registrar, Colombo South Teaching Hospital better tomorrow”. Other speakers included Prof. M D Kalubowila), Mineral toxins: Heavy metals, Arsenic P De Costa, Prof. Veranja Karunaratne. The workshop and other environmental toxins, Dr. Ananda was co-ordianted by Dr. Vinitha M Thadhani, who is Samarasekera (Judicial Medical Officer, Colombo), currently the group leader for science education of Occupational toxic exposures and prevention: Dr. Global young academy and she spoke on “Role of Eranjan Karunanayake (Faculty of Medicine, young academics on Science Education Outreach”. University of Kelaniya), Pharmaceutical toxicology: Dr. Priyadarshani Galapaththi (Head, Department of Directory of Graduate Chemists Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Action is being taken by the Hony. Rector, College of Colombo). Chemical Sciences to publish a Directory of Graduate Chemists in Sri Lanka during the International Year of Chemistry (IYC 2011). The directory will enable the Graduate Chemists to have continuous contact and correspondence and publicize the activities Graduate Chemists are involved in. The Directory will carry information about the current qualifications, employment and contact details of Graduate Chemists. The Directory will be of very much importance in net Workshop conducted working, exchange of scientific information, Workshop on Science Education Outreach collaboration in research, industrial relation and to A workshop on 'Science Education Outreach” was held form a strong body of IChemC graduate chemists on 13th October 2011 from 9 to 5 pm at the serving in Sri Lanka as well as abroad. Adamantane House, Rajagiriya, with academic collaboration of National Science Foundation (NSF), Dr. M A V Devananthan Memorial Lecture National Academy of Science Sri Lanka (NASSL), Dr. M A V Devanathan Memorial Lecture was held on National Institute of Education (NIE) and Ministry of Friday the 9th September 2011 at 5 pm in the P P G L Education. Siriwardene Auditorium at the Headquarters of the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon. The memorial lecture

The event was partially sponsored by NSF. This is the first ever such event in recent history where all parties related to science came in to one forum to discuss

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 20 was delivered by Dr. Samson Hettiarachchi, a former Unveiling of Portraits student of Dr. Davanathan who worked very closely The portraits of two Distinguished Service Awardees, with him. Dr. Hettiarachchi is presently working as a Dr. Lakshmi Arambewela and Professor Siromi Consultant for the Electrical Power Research Institute Samarasinghe were unveiled by Dr. A M Mubarak, in the USA and Advanced Nuclear Technology International in Sweden. Dr. Michael Angelo Vincent Devanathan was a world renowned scientist that Sri Lanka has ever produced. Dr. Devanathan graduated with a B.Sc (First Class Honours) in Chemistry from the University of Ceylon in 1947. He obtained his Ph.D. from the University of London in 1951 for his contributions to the electrical double layer theory. He returned to the University of Ceylon in 1952 and continued his research in the field of Physical Chemistry. His research led to the refinement of the electrical double layer theory to the Director, Industrial Technology Institute and Devanathan triple layer theory. He produced 3 M.Scs Professor Sudantha Liyanage, Dean Faculty of and 10 Ph.Ds through his research. Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayawardenepura University respectively in the Council room of the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon on 2nd September 2011 at the conclusion of the Dr. Devanathan memorial lecture.

He published about 80 research papers, majority of which were in prestigious international journals. For his authoritative contributions to the Physical Chemistry of Electrified Interfaces, Dr. Devanathan was awarded the D.Sc (cum laude) by the University of London in 1964. Fourth Inaugural Professorial Lecture Launching of the New IChemC Web site The Fourth Inaugural Professorial lecture on The new IChem C website was also launched by “Chemistry for Sustainable Utilization of Material Professor J N O Fernando, C.Chem, Hon. nd Resources of Sri Lanka” was held by Prof. H. D. Rector/College of Chemical Sciences, IChemC, on 2 th Gunawardhana, Chartered Chemist on 14 March September 2011, before the Devanathan memorial 2011 at P P G L Siriwardene, Auditorium of the lecture. Institute of Chemistry Ceylon.

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 21 In his lecture he elaborated on sustainability of natural Open Day Exhibition resources using the available technology. The concept of 'sustainability' implies the meeting of current human needs while preserving the environmental and natural resources needed by future generations. Technology is used in industry, value addition to material resources, water management etc. Technology can be considered as the out put of scientific theories giving the final product needed for economic growth. The survival and the sustainability of a particular technology are dependent on the applications of the associated The Open Day Exhibition involved the display of sciences. Basic sciences such as chemistry play a vital exhibits of academic nature mainly in Chemistry, role in the value addition to material resources, water Magic Shows in Chemistry, Seminars etc. Over 2000 management and many industries to achieve A/L students from many schools visited the exhibition sustainability and the continual improvement which is along with their teachers. The exhibition was of one of the eight principles in the management immense benefit to the students who study Chemistry standards of ISO 9001:2005. as a subject and would create interest in Chemistry Prof. Gunawardhana drew the attention to the among the other students. Exhibition covered the underutilization of some of the industrial mineral areas such as; Environmental chemistry, Food resources in Sri Lanka and the necessity to take Chemistry, Health Science, Industrial chemistry. The adequate measures to prevent salt danger caused by students were entertained by conducting chemistry increased utilization of irrigation water resources. magic shows. Several onsite demonstrations were also held to illustrate some aspects of chemical sciences. CHEMEX 2 (Open Day Exhibition) Chemex 2 was held on 24th to 26th November 2011 at the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon. Among the major goals of IYC 2011 are to increase public appreciation of chemistry in meeting world needs, increase the interest of young people in chemistry and generate enthusiasm for the creative future of chemistry. A series of activities have been undertaken by the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon, to achieve these goals. Chemistry Magic Show

Mr. Errol Fernando, Chief Guest at CHEMEX 2 Creation of awareness on Chemistry is one of the important goals of the International Year of Chemistry (IYC 2011). The CHEMEX 2011 Exhibition and Trade Fair conducted by this Institute at BMICH from 27th to The advanced level practical stall demonstrated the 30th January 2011 brought much benefits, especially to importance and necessity of incorporating chemistry the younger generation of the country, especially in the practical sessions into the curriculum in a more increase of interest and enthusiasm in chemistry. As a appealing manner. Students, especially those from result a considerable demand has been created thus outstation schools found the exhibits absorbing and more and more schools requesting for continuation of the knowledge given to them in terms of practical such activities. In response to these requests Institute of point of view was appreciated by them and brought Chemistry and College of Chemical Sciences credit to the institute. At a time when the practical organized the open day exhibition. component is minimal to none, Institute took the lead

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 22 in presenting the importance and the impact of Schools, Devi Balika Vidyalaya scored the highest practical in learning chemistry. The exhibition mark of 318. The 4 students participated from the school were; T.Wathmi Gunathilake, S Yasoda Weerasinghe, Deshanee Wickramarachchi, Dulani K I Liyanage. Central College, Kuliyapitiya scored the highest mark of 217 among the outstations schools. The 4 students participated from the school were; P P M C Kaushalya Pathiraja, R M I Rathnayaka, R P Gayan Madusankha, A A K Tharindu Adhikari.

Prize winners with Chief Guest and Officials A booklet on “Solutions to questions given at the Inaugural National Titration Competition” is available at the office of the Institute of Chemistry. A copy can be purchased for Rs. 100 on request.

School Packs for Global Water Experiment IYC marked another milestone in terms of service done by 2011. the institute for the growth and development of On behalf of the UNESCO, RADMASTE Centre at the chemistry in Sri Lanka. Considering the comments University of Witwatersrand sent five School Packs made by the school teachers with respect to the A/L and five sets of printed materials valued at South Chemistry stall, it was a great success. All areas of African Rands (ZAR) 8894.90 (LKR 120,768.00) to chemistry were covered and both the laboratories at the IChemC in order for schools in Sri Lanka to take part institute were full of banners displaying the theory in the Global Water Experiment of the International behind each experiment which help the students most. Year of Chemistry 2011. National Secretariat has been The banners provided them with knowledge which identified by UNESCO as the Focal Point for was hitherto unknown to them. Students were allowed collection and distribution of the kits in Sri Lanka. to have hands on experience on certain practical such The School Packs and printed resources are a gift from as functional group analysis and in certain experiments the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry they were shown how theory is applied in the form of a (IUPAC) and the United Nations Educational, practical. The most appealing of all was the S c i e n t i f i c a n d C u l t u r a l O r g a n i z a t i o n demonstration of correct titration techniques which (UNESCO). The School Packs contain 10 x student took effect every fifteen minutes. Altogether there kits and 1 x teacher kit for the purpose of allowing were fifteen different practical demonstrations and school children to carry out the four activities that form efforts made by the institute students in particular to part of the Global Water Experiment. More make the event a success tell much about their training information can be found about these activities on the at the institute. website: water. chemistry2011.org/web/iyc. IUPAC and UNESCO have developed a set of Interschool Titration competition activities to entice students around the world to learn An Interschool Titration Competition was conducted about how chemistry contributes to one of the most as a part of the above IYC 2011 activities. The main important resources in their daily lives, water. This objective of the competition was to assess abilities global experiment, “Water: A Chemical Solution”, achieved by the students with respect to laboratory explores the chemistry of water and the role of water in skills of conducting titrations, proper recording of the society and the environment. results, and correlation of the results with the theory of The Global Chemistry Experiment consists of four the GCE (A/L) syllabus. component activities. Each can be carried out by A total of 164 students from 42 schools participated at children of all ages in schools around the world. The the titration competition. Among the Colombo activities are adaptable to the skills and interests of

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 23 students of various ages and use equipment that is (Specialist), Hony. Secretary and a Programme widely available. The activities provide students with Specialist. an appreciation of chemical investigation and data A Steering committee consisting of the Chairman, collection and validation. By the middle of 2012, the IYC Steering Committee, President IChemC, the results will be displayed on an IYC data collection Rector of the CCS, Hony Secretary, Hony Treasurer, website as an interactive global data map Secretary for International Relations of IChemC and demonstrating the value of international cooperation Chairman A&EP Committee will be established. The in science. The activities have been carefully selected Secretariat will be strengthened to carry out in order to ensure they are suitable for implementation coordination with the relevant government agencies, in schools across the world; they have been tested to law enforcement authorities and the industry as well ensure workability, especially in developing as educational institutions. While administering the countries. Kits are available providing the equipment provisions of Chemists Act it will identify, plan, and and materials required for the experiment. implement programmes for the promotion of The four activities in the Global Experiment on chemistry and chemical sciences, in the country. measurement of water quality are: 1. pH: students collect data measuring the pH of a 2. Development of legal provisions for Chemists water body, using indicator solutions . Act /Amendments to present Act. 2. Salinity: students explore the salinity of their local At present there are no legally empowered chemistry water body. professionals to be responsible to certify the quality of 3. Water purification: using filtration and raw material, finished products, consumer products or disinfection students will learn how chemistry is used any other industrial products. Proper use and disposal to help in providing safe drinking water. of chemicals need the authority and this has to be done 4. Desalination: Students will construct a solar still by chemists who should work according to prescribed from household materials to desalinate water. regulations laid by the Government. In the field of education too chemistry subjects are taught at The school kits were distributed free of charge to five secondary and higher levels. There should be (5) schools selected at Provincial level, from among authorized persons to issue certificates to confirm those who performed best at the Inter school Titration specifications and also to comply with the specified Competition held from 15th-21st November 2011 by regulations. Thus the services of chemists are this Institute. The schools qualified were: Devi Balika required in education, manufacturing industry, import Vidyalalya, Colombo 8; Kuliyapitiya Central and export, distribution, storage and transport of College, Kuliyapitiya; Vidyananda College, chemicals. Therefore action should be taken to Mulliyawalai; Wesley High School, Kalmunai and regulate the chemical industry through establishment Vijitha Central College, Dickwella. Arrangments of appropriate provisions in the present legislations. were also made to demonstrate the said experiments There is an urgent need to have a group of national on 27th January 2012 at IChemC for the benefit of the level professionals with necessary legal authority to teachers and students of the above schools. handle the present issues in regard to chemicals. Empowering Chemists to provide them with legal Continuation of IYC Activities authority to handle the present issues in regard to 1. Broadening the Scope of the National chemicals and chemical industry will greatly benefit Secretariat the industry as well as the public. Therefore, this The present National Secretariat established for the activity has been identified as one of the priority areas. implementation of IYC 2011 activities will be Action will be taken to provide legal recognition to reorganized and strengthened to plan and implement chemistry profession and thereby recognize the programmes for the promotion of chemistry and chemist designation as the authority to sign and seal or chemical sciences in Sri Lanka. The National stamp chemistry documents for a study, estimate and Secretariat has the task of reviewing the present design or analyze. Thus the chemical industry will be legislation in regard to various other Acts and regulated through establishment of appropriate formulating a Chemists Act. It will also involve in the provisions in the present legislations. administration of the said Act after it comes to The proposed process requires thorough study of the operation. The National Secretariat will be housed in present legal provisions in other relevant Acts such as the same building of the Institute of Chemistry Control of Pesticides Act, Food Control Act, and Ceylon. The staff will consist of Chairman Industrial Acts including Labour and Occupational Hygiene, Health Regulations and ISO 18000 etc.

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 24 Cooperation and support of other relevant agencies is be selected for the Provincial Level contests. Three extensively required in this exercise. Therefore, best contestants from each Province will then be consultations and awareness meetings will be selected for the national level competition. The organized with various other agencies presently National Level Competition will be held with responsible for manufacture, import and export, collaboration of the Ministry of Education/National quality control of chemicals and drugs etc. and legal Science Foundation. Chemistry Days will be aspects. conducted in selected schools. The objective of the Chemistry Day programme is to create awareness of 3. Training workshops on specific subjects related the importance of chemistry in the daily life, to the Industry contribution of chemistry to the well being of the Provisions of the proposed Act will be extensively society, enhancing the interest in chemistry among discussed at the meetings with relevant agencies, school children, improvement of knowledge in before and after its enactment to ensure its beneficial chemistry, and its importance in the national effects to the industry. Training workshops for development. The school arts, essay and poster personnel engaged in manufacture, import and export competitions and chemistry days will also enrich of chemicals, food control, health, industries such as school children's knowledge in chemistry to help tea, rubber, plastics and minerals etc. to enhance their them at school level studies, encourage young people knowledge in appropriate fields of chemical industry to get interested in chemistry and generate will be organized. enthusiasm for chemistry activities, increase the student's appreciation and understanding of 4. Chemistry Days, School Essay/Art/Poster chemistry and its role in everyday of life. It is competition expected to select one school from District and each In view of the importance of chemistry and chemical such school will invite neighboring schools for the sciences in the national development, high priority has Chemistry Day. been accorded to promote Chemistry among school children and the general public. Action will be taken 5. Publications by the National Secretariat to continue awareness Action will be taken to publish articles, news paper programmes and educational programmes with a view advertisements, workshop proceedings, leaflets and to creating enthusiasm and interest in chemistry among pamphlets, proceedings of the workshops etc. to the students. Accordingly, essay/arts/poster strengthen the above activities and to disseminate competitions will be conducted at each Educational information among the chemical societies, Division level with the assistance of the Zonal universities, educational institutions, and education Offices of the Ministry of Education. Three government organizations etc. best contestants from each Zonal Education Area will Cover Page The Cover page carries photographs depicting the educational and cultural activities conducted by the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon for IYC 2011; school children waiting in line to view the CHEMEX I exhibition; Chemistry magic show by the students of the College of Chemical Sciences (CCS) for school children at CHEMEX II open day exhibition; rituals in a Tamil home on Avurudu Asiriya day.

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 25 Highlights of International Year of Chemistry CHEMEX 1 - 27th - 30th January 2011 at BMICH Ceremonial Inauguration of CHEMEX 1 All Island Interschool Chemistry Quiz Contest on 27th January

Orchestra by CCS Students

Drama by CCS Students

Practical demonstration

CHEMEX 2 - 24th - 26th November 2011 at Adamantane House At the Entrance School Children at the Chemistry Magic Show, one of the most popular events.

Practical demonstration

Practical demonstration

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 26 CHEMEX 2011 - Keynote Address on 28th January 2011 Chemistry in everyday life Professor S Sotheeswaran Institute of Chemistry Ceylon, Rajagiriya

Chemists are the victims of bad publicity. We are beginning of time, when will it end? I think it will held responsible for dangerous chemicals in foods, prevail till the end of time. fertilizers, medicines, detergents, toiletries etc. In Now let me stop wandering to the beginning of other words, chemists are responsible, among other time and hurtling to the end of time and bring you back things, for ill health, environmental pollution and the to the present. All I want to tell you is that you may hate slow strangulation of bio-diversity. In brief, we are the chemistry, but you cannot escape it. cause of many ills on this planet. Chemistry is all around you. It is in the kitchen; it I wish to: is in the market place; it is in the food you eat; it is in the (a) defend chemists against some of the medicine you take; it is in the clothes you wear; it is in wrongdoings we are unjustly accused of and the shelter in which you seek refuge. It is everywhere. (b) write in praise of chemists. IT IS IN YOUR DAY TO DAY LIFE.

We chemists have the right to be extremely proud About Water of the fact that the year 2011 was declared as the The very water you drink is a chemical; it is a International Year of Chemistry (IYC) by the United compound of hydrogen and oxygen in the atomic Nations. Chemists all over the world are determined to proportion of 2:1. Chemistry has come a long way celebrate IYC 2011, and enthusiasm gathered since the time scientists agreed that water is a chemical

momentum in Sri Lanka with the involvement of the with the chemical formula H2O. Institute of Chemistry Ceylon, which organized the There is now an explosion of knowledge in the exhibition “CHEMEX 2011” at the BMICH in field of Chemistry. But certain procedures remain the Colombo from 27-2-2011 to 30-2-2011. Sri Lankan same. The discoverer of the structure of water had to chemists came out of their smelly laboratories and supply experimental proof for the notion that water is

invited the Sri Lankan public, especially H2O. His peers were satisfied and accepted his idea. schoolchildren, to join in the celebration dedicated to Proof is necessary even today when a new hypothesis is Chemistry. “CHEMEX 2011” received overwhelming put forward. support from the public and was a resounding success. We all know the importance of water in human When did Chemistry begin? I would say the lives. Without water there would be no human life. moment the universe began. Eminent cosmologists About two-thirds of the weight of an adult human and astro-physicists tell us that during the moments consists of water. About two-thirds of this water is after the big bang, energy was converted to matter in located within our biochemical cells, while the the form of minute particles that have been given remaining third consists of extracellular water, mostly exotic names. In due course, these particles coalesced in the blood plasma and in the interstitial fluid that to form the lightest elements, and these in turn were bathes the cells. The water in the blood plasma serves cooked in stars to form heavier and heavier elements; as a supporting fluid for the blood cells; water acts as a elements then combined in numerous and various vehicle for transporting chemicals between cells; it ways to form compounds of increasing complexity; also helps to eliminate waste chemicals from the body and then humans appeared on this planet. Humans are to the external environment. The water in blood plasma a bundle of chemicals. We are not biological contains salt (NaCl)—another chemical—as well as entities—we are chemicals engaged in doing physics. other inorganic salts, protein and a variety of trace Who was the first Chemist? It is anybody's guess. substances. But I like to think that it was the man who first made How does the body get water? Drinking water glass serendipitously when he cooked his food in a constitutes only one source of water; many foods, hearth on the seashore. We now know that high heat especially fruits and vegetables, are an important and silicon dioxide, or silica, from sea sand are secondary source. Even the driest nut or biscuit necessary to make glass. Or it may have been the wife contributes some water. In addition, a considerable of that man by the sea who did the cooking— in which amount of water (350-400 mL/day) is produced case the first chemist was a woman. metabolically —from the biochemical oxidation of The history of Chemistry is full of serendipitous glucose in our bodies. discoveries. It is also full of inspired intuitions, The quantity of water exchanged within various guesswork, hard-work, luck, controversy and parts of our bodies is surprisingly large. The kidneys heartbreak. process about 180 L/day; most of this processed water If chemistry appeared on this planet at the is returned to the blood stream.

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 27 DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) and, it must be admitted, costly tools, and advanced I am sure there are very few people who have not techniques to analyze chemicals speedily and to heard of DNA—the genetic material that controls synthesize and test novel chemicals. heredity. The great structural chemist Linus Pauling But we chemists must jealously guard our image. proposed a structure for DNA that was not accepted by If we are told that the word “synthetic” stinks, we must his peers. It was Watson and Crick who put forward labour to point out that everything synthetic is not the now famous double helical structure of DNA. It harmful per se. It is the misuse, overuse and abuse of was acceptable because it concurred with all the synthetic chemicals that is harmful. known data about DNA. The public demands wonder drugs and then Water is an inorganic compound with a simple blames the chemists if there are side effects. It is our structure whereas DNA is a complex organic duty to tell the public that it has a right to demand new compound with a novel structure. Water and DNA are and efficacious drugs and also demand that the proper chemicals that exist in nature. Chemistry does not stop government and medical authorities test and monitor with investigating natural chemicals such as these. these drugs and regulate their use. It is not the fault of chemists that prescription drugs are freely available Designer Chemicals over the counter and that patients resort to self- Today, chemists are capable of delivering medication. It is our duty to warn. designer chemicals, designer therapeutic drugs and designer genes. Natural Chemicals Benzodiazepines are good examples of designer Almost every chemical, be it natural or synthetic, therapeutic drugs. They are used as tranquillizers, is a potential poison. Chemists did not invent hypnotics, anticonvulsants and centrally acting chemicals. No matter how many chemicals we muscle relaxants and rank among the most frequently synthesize we cannot match the number nature has prescribed therapeutic drugs. synthesized in her laboratories—the leaves, flowers, I n 1 9 6 0 , t h e f i r s t b e n z o d i a z e p i n e , stems and roots of plants, animals, the bowels of the chlordiazepoxide, was introduced. To date, more than earth, volcanoes, oceans, the atmosphere and so on. It is 50 benzodiazepines have been marketed in over 100 not merely a matter of numbers but also of endless different preparations. They are sold mainly as variety and matchless complexity. capsules and tablets; however, some are marketed in If we were to investigate the chemicals in the leaf other forms such as injectable solutions or as powders. of just one exotic plant, we will find dozens of In the illicit drug market diazepam, temazepam chemicals—some already known but others new and and flunitrazepam are used as drugs of abuse, often in unheard of. The discoverer even gets the privilege of combination with alcohol, and as additives in other naming the new chemicals. drugs of abuse. Virtually all of the benzodiazepines in Nature can vex chemists. She will vary some of the the illicit market come from diversion from legitimate chemicals in that leaf, and their proportions, according sources and there is no evidence of clandestine to the season; the soil, the cultivar and so on. manufacture. The natural world is full of harmful chemicals, Methaqualone is another designer therapeutic many of which are capable of causing cancer. We take drug; it was first synthesised in 1951 and introduced in in minute amounts of carcinogens every time we eat 1956 as a new medicine that produced sedation and mushrooms and celery. We consume toxic chemicals sleep. every time we eat tomatoes and potatoes. There are an Methaqualone had been initially designed to incredible number of carcinogens in nature and we get counter the nervous damage caused by long-term drug more of these carcinogens than carcinogens produced abuse and to reduce the possible risk of dependency on by the chemical industry. barbiturates, which were therapeutically used as We can not do much about natural carcinogens but sedatives. This plan did not succeed. we must be wary about the use of synthetic carcinogens Interest in methaqualone rose dramatically in and other toxic chemicals we produce for various recent years. Its popularity was due to its undeserved purposes. Cigarette smoke contains more than 40 reputation as an 'aphrodisiac' often in combination chemicals that are carcinogenic. These are inhaled by with diphenhydramine. Because of its strong habit- smokers and also by passive smokers. forming properties the drug was placed on the list of Chemicals should be used wisely—not just controlled substances and the legal manufacturer synthetic chemicals but also natural chemicals that are stopped its production and removed it from the market a gift to us from nature. Morphine is a natural painkiller in 1984. that comes from the poppy plant but it is also a There are many more chemicals besides the few dangerous habit-forming drug if used unwisely. examples given above that have been synthesized by Morphine was the first biologically active alkaloid chemists, and these are examples of chemicals made to be discovered and was extracted from the opium to order. poppy plant in December 1804 by Friedrich Sertürner Today, chemists have wonderful, sophisticated The drug was first marketed to the general public by

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 28 Sertürner and Company in 1817 as an analgesic, and trouble is that chemists can not only synthesize novel also as a treatment for opium and alcohol addiction. compounds but can also make synthetic copies of Commercial production began in Darmstadt, those that exist in nature. This allows manufacturers Germany in 1827 by the pharmacy that became the to steer clear of the abominable words “synthetic pharmaceutical company Merck; morphine sales chemicals or synthetic substitutes” and proclaim that contributed largely to its early growth. the ingredients include “nature identical flavouring Some natural chemicals are 100% poison with, at s u b s t a n c e s ” . T h i s e u p h e m i s m f o r present, no known usefulness to humans. But believe “syntheticchemicals” helps sell the product. It is up me, they are useful to the plant or animal that to the consumer to demand what is wanted and to produces them. The poison produced by poison ivy help set standards. must have evolved to prevent enemies of poison ivy form munching it. In short, it is a chemical weapon. Role of Chemists Nature produced chemical weapons long before Chemists can help people make informed chemists did. On second thoughts, I wonder whether personal choices when it comes to selecting chemists ever produced chemical weapons—they chemical based products. produced chemicals that have been used as weapons. Chemists can help society make choices Is the chemist culpable? Chemists can give the world regarding the use of chemicals that will strike a their discoveries and the facts and possibilities about balance between the use of chemicals and the quality those discoveries. It is up to the world to choose what of life. to do with the discoveries. Chemists can contribute to the recycling of The most dangerous chemical weapons used natural resources thereby helping to preserve or during World War 2 were known as sarin and tabun. restore the environment. They can persuade people German chemists synthesized these chemicals. It was to use chemicals sparingly in order to minimize known that commercial pesticides are used in pollution. They can campaign to popularize the use agriculture to kill pests and that these pesticides act as of vehicles that make the best use of the sources of neuro-poisons—that is, these pesticides attack the energy required for transportation. They can functioning of the brain of the pests and eventually encourage people to use energy sources frugally in kill them. Sarin and tabun are neuro-poisons that were order to conserve them and help in developing used as chemical weapons during World War 2 and renewable sources of energy. many civilians were killed in addition to combatants. In the case of massive industrial accidents as Chemical weapons can kill extensively and are happened in the Bhobal tragedy and in the Gulf of known as weapons of mass destruction. Mexico Petroleum leak, chemists can help in identifying the cause, help in cleaning up the Food Flavours environment and help in devising safety measures If the manufacturers of instant soups and instant that will prevent such tragedies in the future. sauces and other packaged foods find it profitable and easy to use synthetic chemicals in their products, it is I close with the slogan that chemists have up to the public to demand that these be safe adopted—“Chemistry is the Central Science”. I am chemicals and it is up to the authorities to see that sure it will continue to be so. manufacturers conform to safety regulations. The

Graduateship Examinations in Chemistry, 2011 Level 3 Overall Awards List, 2011 First Prize & Mandrupa & Oleap Fernando Hall Opening Scholarship Mr P U A I Fernando Second Prize and Susila Jayaweera Memorial Scholarship Mr R Sanjeevan Third Prize & Graduateship Silver Jubilee Scholarship Ms L P Egodawatta Merit Bursaries (in order of merit) Ms H C Weerarathna, Ms S D Gunasinghe, Ms M C D Cooray, Ms L A P Obeysekara, Ms N H P De Silva Level 3 Prize List, 2011 Mrs Careen Manel Abeywardene Memorial Prize for Natural Products Chemistry Mr A S Ghouse Batch 2005 Prize for Information Technology Mr H R Chinthana P. Rohan K. Fernando Prize for Special Topics in Chemistry Ms L A P Obeyesekera Egodawatte G. Somapala Prize for Food Chemistry & Technology Ms N H P De Silva & Ms L P Egodawatte Mr & Mrs N.I.N.S. Nadarasa Prize for Special Topics in Organic Chemistry Mr R Sanjeevan

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 29 CHEMEX 2011 - Keynote Address on 29th January 2011 Chemistry for Industry Rajitha Kariyawasan Managing Director, Haycarb Plc and Director, Hayleys Plc

Economy and Sustainable Industrial Development: institutes. What is most striking is the fact that nearly Sri Lankan Economy has recovered, and is 50% of world R&D spend (ie around U$ 500 billion)is expected to record an accelerated growth rate close to spent by 1000 Private Corporations named as 8% in 2010 and beyond. This is after a decline in the Innovation 1000 Companies. This is a small population GDP since 2006 to 2009. There is a very positive of corporate world that constitute the best innovation economic outlook with the ending of 3 decades of war driven Companies. In the sectoral analysis, it is in the North & East, which has resulted in a strong important to recognize that Healthcare, Computing & political and economic outlook in the back drop of the Electronics and Auto sectors being the leading slow recovery of the global economy. segments of R&D spend. In that sense, Sri Lanka needs The Industrial sector contributes close to 29% of to have a FDI policy framework and economic policy the total Sri Lankan economy with a growth rate above that caters to attract such large and innovative driven that of the GDP over the last 5-6 years. Multi National Corporations if we are to increase our It is essential that Sri Lanka looks forward to a R&D spending, apart from looking at additional Sustainable Industrial Development model, within the contributions from the State. three key pillars of, the Government/Economic Policy framework, Private sector focused towards Triple Role of Chemistry Bottom line, and a conscious civic society playing their Let us look at key challenges Sri Lanka faces for roles effectively for Sustainable Development process. which Chemistry need to support effective solutions. They are Poverty Elevation, R&D spending and Significance of Research &Development (R & D) technology gap, influencing Government Policy, The role of R&D in Chemistry in the industrial influencing the Corporate culture, finding solutions for development is vital. Enhancement of effective R&D Energy-Food crisis, health issues and climate change efforts and resultant new technologies help to enhance etc… the list goes on. the value added products/services enabling to compete There is a gap in education system that is common in developed and sophisticated markets. Whilst helping to Chemistry field as well. At macro level Sri Lanka's to build a knowledge workforce, its strength in brand spend on higher education is close to 0.5% of GDP building and providing a competitive advantage is very (based on limited statistics available) that is much important to recognize. The R&D and new technology below USA, Europe and Japan; also well below China will assist in taking Sri Lanka economy from a factor who spends around 1.5% of GDP that has increased by driven one at present to an efficiency driven one in the many folds during the last few years. Sri Lanka needs to future whilst setting targets for the ultimate reach to the increase the higher education spend between 1-1.5% of Innovation Driven Economy. Can Sri Lanka have an GDP, if we are to prepare the next generation for the Economic Plan reach to an Innovation Driven 'future' industrial and economic growth. In this process Economy by year 2030? Effective enhancements and the gaps in the higher education framework, infra developments in Chemistry will help to reach that structure/resources and Attitudes need urgent status. addressing. It is important to recognize the dynamic R&D It is vital that we realize the closeness of spending and knowledge flow in the world. Today the Chemistry in almost every product and activity in our USA, European block and Japan are key net R&D day to day lives; Chemistry creates the building blocks generators whilst China/India are key R&D net of our daily used products/services and activities. From importers. Today Sri Lanka is estimated to spend less an industry angle, it is important to recognize that there than 0.2% of its GDP on R&D where as countries like are upstream, intermediary and downstream sectors of India and China spending over 1% of their GDP on the Chemistry in industry. Also it is important to note R&D. This is significant considering their size of the the industry verticals and laterals if we take key economy. Therefore, it is essential to increase Sri industrial segments like food & beverages, textiles etc Lanka's R&D spend to at least 1% of its GDP, if we are in our value adding industry segments. to have a sustainable and a rapid industrial growth. These industries demand value addition, brand On the other hand, out of the total global R&D building/recognition, competitiveness through spend estimated around U$ 1 trillion, nearly 62% innovation and productivity, new technology, contributed by major Corporations and around 38% by compliance to quality and environmental regulations to Governments, nonprofit organizations and other address the growing customer needs where Chemistry

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 30 should partner in finding solutions. In conclusion, the role of Chemistry professional and The following industry experiences can also be Institutes should be geared to, highlighted. 1. Focus on Value addition in the Economy & Industry – innovation , efficiency and Positive Experiences Negative Experiences productivity 2. Compel the State and Private Sector to invest on ?Desire' to Value Add ?Lack of Innovation R&D – minimum threshold on 1% of GDP and and build Strategies platforms and NPD Companies at 1% Turnover (Incentivize) e m b r a c i n g Strategies 3. Acquire Expert Knowledge – Expand the horizon Innovation and NPD ?Poor value addition through higher studies, import & impart ?Enthusiastic and and brand building 'knowledge and competencies' ? qualified talent pool Vacuum in Industry 4. Build effective Private Public Partnership ?' D e s i r e ' t o b e Experts & Brain 5. Continually evolve Chemistry Curriculum to innovative Drain ?Resilience to Chaos ?D i s c o n n e c t meet the needs of Industry (of New Sri Lanka) and Respect for B e t w e e n 6. Be good at right things; not at everything Sanity R & D / A c a d e m i c 7. Market/customer orientation ?Positive attitudes Community and 8. Entrepreneurial Spirit ?Wi l l i n g n e s s t o Business Leaders 9. Prepare to be future leaders – Private and Public embrace change on ?No vibrant PPP Sector – CTO/COO/CEO roles new processes and ?Inadequate new technology t e c h n o l o g y Innovation is the key for all this success. This is platforms on new practically shown many times by Corporations who key applications for are innovation leaders and drivers through their Chemistry leadership position in the industry segments. These ?Inadequate Presence Companies have excelled in both top and bottom line o f K e y M u l t i - N a t i o n a l with exponential growth over many years. Corporations and As Apple CEO Mr. Steve Jobs ones said, Linkages to key “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a Research/Testing follower”. Institutes This is further strengthened by the inscription of ?Internal Focus on the Nobel Prize for Chemistry & Physics which says, industry needs in Inventions enhance life beautified through art; Projects – Not synchronizes ideally with the theme of the CHEMEX d r i v e n b y 2011, Chemistry – Our Life, Our Future. Customer/Market needs

Membership News The following persons have been either transferred or admitted to the categories of membership and designation between July 2011 to January 2012.

Transfer to Fellow Transfer to Member Admission as Member Mrs. S Elakaduwa Ms. T B R N Jayatissa Mr. R B Warnakulasooriya Ms. K P Chandrani Ukwatta Ms. B S Lankage W P R Liyanage Ms. I S Perera Y M P B K Warnasooriya Ms. S H U I De Silva Y M N S Bandara

Admission as Associate Admission as Licentiate Mr. D M D S Dissanayake Mr. R Kapila Mr. W M S C Wanasinghe H M A K Herath V R Pathira Kankanamge

correction to Chemistry in Sri Lanka Vol. 28 No. 3 page 12 Transfer to Fellow Mr. D H L W Jayamanne

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 31 CHEMEX 2011 - Keynote Address on 30th January 2011 Professional Chemical Education for the well-being of Society for the Knowledge Based Era Prof. J N O Fernando Honorary Rector, College of Chemical Sciences

We have over the past few days witnessed that this by providing over the past four decades two invaluable mammoth Exhibition and Trade Fair CHEMEX 2011 professional programmes at the technicians/technology has inaugurated the International Year of Chemistry so and the Graduateship levels is indeed a very significant designated by the United Nations. and praiseworthy. Our Institute has therefore been able to I believe that we have been able to enhance the supply 746 Chemistry technologists who are providing a appreciation of Chemistry for the well-being of the Sri useful supportive role at the middle level and then remain Lankan Society as a consequence of what we have been up to today as the only such programme amongst the basic able to offer to thousands of school children who have sciences. The more ambitious and demanding attended this great event, and seen the wonders that Graduateship Programme in Chemistry provides over Chemistry has to offer. 40% of all the Graduate Chemists produced in Sri Lanka Although the disciplines of Chemistry is followed and we are since 1996 the largest provider of such by all Sri Lankan science students at the Advanced Graduate Chemists: The 739 Graduate Chemists so far Level stage and Chemistry continues for many decades produced had also enabled Sri Lanka to produce at no cost to be the most sought after programme for to the national exchequer useful and productive chemists specialization in the SCIENCE Faculty of Sri Lankan who are making enormous contributions towards the well- Universities, Chemistry is viewed by a large majority of being of society and national development, both Sri Lankans merely as a means to an end and not as a nationally and globally. profession by itself. The importance and the This four year programme is perhaps the most low indispensable need for Chemistry as a profession on a cost degree programme anywhere in the world but level similar to that of other professions such as produces high quality Graduate Chemists who have been Medicine, Engineering, Law and Architecture has not recognized and accepted both for higher degrees and been widely disseminated. We hope that the numerous employment in Universities and institutions spread events and activities planned for the International Year of Chemistry with the global tag line Chemistry - Our globally. Life, Our Future will enable the Chemistry Profession The Institute of Chemistry Ceylon which conducts to receive more recognition than at present and the these programmes, with efficiency, equity and efficacy importance place of Chemistry Industry in the life of had also been able concurrently to enhance its own any nation is appreciated particularly by young people. infrastructure and service for the well-being of Sri Lankan Chemistry is indeed a creative and innovative science society. These educational programmes have enabled the and its research applications are indispensable in any Institute to enhance its office facilities from zero to that of area of society be it pharmaceuticals, agriculture, a four storeyed building at Rajagiriya so that the general engineering, communications, constructions, well-being of Sri Lankan society has got a tremendous environment, food, textiles etc. boost. The employment of 40 full time staff and several We are now well into a Knowledge Based Society visiting Staff in order to provide these educational in which the new material for a productive economic facilities has also been made possible through the development has moved away from money to Institute's direct involvement in human resource Information, Education and Knowledge. Knowledge is development through professional Chemical Education. the key to the development of people and if this critical The Graduateship Programme has also been recognized asset is provided to disadvantaged people, then they and accredited by the Northumbria University in the UK would be in a better position to clear out of the poverty and the Cincinnati University in the USA by giving credit trap. The only route to great knowledge is through exemptions for Sri Lankan students who wish to proceed proper Education & Training permitting people to take abroad after two years enabling them to obtain a foreign full advantage of emerging technologies. Information degree at a much reduced cost since the first two years are which is weightless, invisible and omnipresent is conducted at the College of Chemical Sciences. converted to the meaningful form of knowledge, Let us therefore recognize the role of Chemistry in understanding and wisdom through Education. contributing solutions to global challenges and appreciate It is in this context that diverse form of Chemical the invaluable role played by Sri Lankan Chemists in Education has a big role to play towards the well-being providing professional Chemical Education with of society. The unique role played by the College of magnificent human resource development for the well- Chemical Sciences of the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon being of society.

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 32 Articles Science and its role in a better world; Role of young academics Vinitha M. Thadhani Executive Committee member, Global Young Academy (Group Leader, Science Education) Senior Lecturer, University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Scientific innovation has been, and will continue our school children preferred learning science which to be the dominant engine of global growth. Socio- included student centered activity, along with the economic development is no longer dependent on traditional method of chalk/board/dictating notes natural resources (eg. Japan, European countries). The methodologies. countries which believed in investing on science Young academics should be more frequently education are making more progress than the countries involved in curriculum development, improving who have invested on gold and oil mines. Knowledge teaching methodologies etc. This process would enable is now the main driving force of world economies and to pass the experience of senior academics to the there is a lot needed to be done by the young scientists relevant authorities through the young scientist. of the country to reach this goal. Sri Lanka's ability to create a demand driven Interdisciplinary research education system that focuses on lifelong learning will A world which is increasingly facing global determine the country's capacity to embrace the challenges such as climate change, resource benefits of knowledge economy. Scientific literacy is exploitation, and public health disparities etc, can not essential to stimulate an environment conductive to face these challenges using a science of single new knowledge generation, discovery and innovation. disciplinary. Thus unlike earlier times, we would Access to science education has grown steadily in hardly find any Ph.D. which are given on single Sri Lanka in response to the need to widen scientific disciplinary. Sri Lanka should also promote this by literacy. Curriculum reforms through the years have having especial granting schemes for research which sought to improve the quality of science education and are multidisciplinary. important strides have been made. The literacy level in Sri Lanka has reached up to 95%. Despite this progress University/ Industry partnerships there is a concern about science education. Students A key issue for many at the forefront of innovation are not able to demonstrate acceptable levels of is to ensure that the intensive research and achievements in applying their knowledge to everyday development is put to good use and that the technology situations and to work place. The innovation in Science in universities, are transformed in to commercially and technology division in Sri Lanka has been below viable products. This issue is a global problem, and satisfactory when compared to other neighboring academics need to stay connected with industries to countries. make sure their products add value to the economy. Young scientist who often tackle research problems in Competency based science education less conventional ways than do their older more Science is taught in many schools mainly as established peers, also could be good ambassadors to examination oriented, using conventional reach this goal. teaching/learning methods and does not stimulate interest. Importance of formation of National academies for Memorizing facts and information is not the most young scientist important skill in today's world. Facts change, and There is a stark difference between the world of sports information is readily available, what is needed is an and science, in both young people from around the understanding of how to get and make sense of the world try to surpass all previous accomplishments in mass of data. Primary and secondary education should pursuit of world records or scientific discoveries. focus on teaching students ‘how to learn’ rather than Selected entirely on merit, athletes receive honor just emphasizing occupation specific knowledge. for participating in the games, spurring the next Providing students with lifelong learning skills will generation of young people in each nation to excel. make them more adaptable to the rapidly changing And as star athletes age, they often support their sport needs of the market. Inquiry based learning is a form in other ways, serving as advocates, mentors, or of active learning, where progress is assessed by how coaches. In contrast in too many nations including Sri well students develop experimental and analytical Lanka selection and promotion processes in science skills rather than how much knowledge they possess. involve consideration other than merit. Senior In a recent all Island survey conducted by Institute scientists receive most of the resources available for of chemistry, from more than 8500 school children scientific research and young scientists rarely receive (Grade 10-12), it was revealed that more than 80% of societal recognition for their work. Perhaps as one

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 33 consequence, science is typically not a top career bringing together young scientists from all fields choice. Thus many exceptional scientist around the related to science to expand research capacity and world thereby go unrecognized, their talents allowed to exchange best practices in science policy and wither away untapped. education. This effort would also aspire to advance In an attempt to reverse such trends, a nascent communications between science and society. young national academies movement has begun across the globe, namely Global Young Academy (GYA), a Prevent Brain Drain new international group of young scientists has recently The university education of Sri Lanka has never been established by inter Academy Panel for failed to produce quality graduates, who are able to International Issues (IAP) to promote this cause. The obtain enrolment to foreign universities. On the other GYA promotes establishment of national young hand large numbers of excellent young scientists of our academies and provide a forum for young scientists in country migrate to developed countries. This is the countries without such organizations. worst situation which a country could face. This is due Many senior academies have seen the need of to the difference in research opportunities between establishing national young academies of their developing and developed countries. These expatriate respective countries. Germany Academy was the first, scientists often have a desire to support research to form a young national academy 10 years back. development in Sri Lanka, but do not know how and Netherlands followed it. And in recent past, Sudanese, where to start. Methods should be developed to Attract Denmark, Scotland, South Africa, Thailand, and Japan them back--- by creating an enabling environment young national academies have been formed, to such as salaries, research funding, access to literature/ encourage and empower their young members to Instrumentation etc. with the ultimate goal to improve engage in interdisciplinary research, communicate the scientific environment in the country, which will science to society, and provide advice on national lead to a decrease in the brain drain phenomenon. science policies, especially those affecting young Given that science, technology and innovation is scientists. pivotal to economic advancement and societal benefit, In the interests of scientific and resource the voice of the young scientists community sustainability, a country should encourage the views contributes importantly to the success of these issues. and approaches of its best young scientists, who often Thus it is the utmost responsibility of all young tackle research problems in less conventional ways academics who are passionate about science to play than do their older, more established peers. The their role in best of their ability in the prevailing establishment of NYA in Sri Lanka would emphasize circumstances, for the betterment of tomorrow. ~~*~~*~~ Electrochemical Science: Advancement, contribution towards national development Dr. U S K Weliwegamage College of Chemical Sciences, Institute of Chemistry Ceylon, Rajagiriya

Electrochemistry is one of the very important known as Danielle cell which generated electricity theoretical and applied topic coming under physical consisting of copper and zinc electrodes. chemistry. It accommodates a broad technology The English scientist William Gilbert discovered including a vast range of applications. At our day to day magnetism during the same period. In 1663 the first life we make use of many applications of electricity generator was invented by the German electrochemical technology. It may be ranging from a scientist Otto von Guericke. In 1785 the laws of simple dry cell to any advanced device. electrostatic attraction was formulated by Charles- Electrochemistry deals with the processes take place at Augustin De Coulomb. The investigations of Luigi the electrode solution interface, most are quite complex Galvani using a frog leg in 18th century set the multistep processes and involves charge and mass foundation to studies in real electrochemistry, the transfer, adsorption desorption, electro deposition, etc. relation of electricity and chemical reactions. The electrolysis/decomposition of water to generate Historical background: hydrogen and oxygen was studied by William The two English scientists John Danielle and Nicholson and John Wilhelm Ritter in 1800. The work Michael Faraday (1791-1867) are honoured as on electrolysis of Sir Humphry Davy in the same founders of electrochemistry. The development of century led to the isolation of the two elements sodium electrochemistry dates to eighteenth century. Michael and potassium. At a junction between two dissimilar Faraday stated his famous two laws of electrochemistry metals, when there is a heat difference in the two in 1832. He was the inventor of electric motor as well. metals a junction potential arises, which was Danielle invented a primary electrochemical cell discovered by Thomas John Seebeck in 1821. The

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 34 Ohms' law was formulated by German Scientist attractive mode of electricity generation in George Ohm in 1827. First fuel cell was produced by recent years. Nano technology also has William Grove in 1839. In 1868 George Leclanche contributed in advancement of electrochemical invented the first widely used dry cell Zinc- carbon cells. Some such cells based on carbon nano- battery. tubes have found to be very efficient in energy The famous Arrhenius theory of electrolytic storage, which could be used in electrically dissociations of aqueous solutions was published in driven cars. 1884, which contributed very much to the (iii)Corrosion and its prevention: Corrosion and its understandings of ions in solutions. The studies on prevention is a very important area in material conductivity by Friedrich Ostwald (1894) supported science. The corrosion of metals is an the ideas of Arrhenius and also discovered about strong electrochemical process. Design of methods for and weak electrolytes. Walther Hermann Nernst in in prevention of corrosion depends on the 1888 put forward the ideas on electromotive force of knowledge of the electrochemistry of the electrochemical cells and famous Nernst equation. system. Major Branches of Electrochemistry: (1) Theoretical Electrochemistry : This deals with the Contribution of Electrochemistry to Industrial s i m p l e a n d a d v a n c e d p r i n c i p l e s o f development of Sri Lanka electrochemistry Sri Lanka once had very prominent electrochemical (2) Applied Electrochemistry : This has several industries such as Paranthan Electrochemical branches industry, which used brine to generate sodium (i) Electroanalytical chemistry: This includes the hydroxide having by products hydrogen and chlorine. analytical techniques based on electrochemical All these are important raw materials for several principles. They are mainly divided as two industries. Further chlorine is daily needed in water electrode and three electrode techniques. disinfection, which is solely imported, although our Conductometry and potentiometry include the country is surrounded by ocean. It is time to re major two electrode techniques. Potentiometric establish this industry at Paranthan. Further there is a sensors are used in determining many important potential to establish electrochemical industries based analytes such as different ions, pesticides, etc. on brine at some other locations as well, may be at Among the three electrode techniques: Puttalum and Hambantota. voltammetry (e.g. cyclic, square wave), amperometry, stripping analysis, polarography Metal Finishing are included. There are many important daily This industry includes electroplating, galvanizing, applications of such techniques such as metal polishing etc. This is carried out in different amperometric glucose electrode / biosensor areas of the country as cottage industries. The based on glucose oxidase enzyme activity, used government or other private sector investment on this by diabetic patients. Amperometric sensors are area is very low, other than few such large scale very sensitive and could be used in trace level industries at some BOI export processing zones. This determination of several analytes such as is a very important industry which chemists could pesticides, some heavy metal ions, and contribute. substances like peroxides. Apart of these cylic voltametry is a very important primary Electrosynthesis investigation tool of redox properties of systems, Many industrially important substances ( e.g. some known as the spectroscopic analogue of drugs, polymers)could be produced by electrochemistry. electrosynthesis, where the required product is (ii)Electrochemical energy sources: They include a generated by an electrochemical process. Such wide range of electrochemical cells, simple dry substances could be produced at very pure level cells to high capacity cells used in hybrid motor compared to conventional synthetic methods. vehicles. Fuel cell technology also found to be an Benevolent Fund Benefits for Members ?Long life Benefits: Rs. 10,000 (over 70)/ Rs. 15,000 (over 75)/Rs. 20,000 (over 80) ?Critical illness benefits (upto Rs. 50,000) ?International travel for conferences (upto Rs. 50,000) ?Balance 50% of Tuition fees of any member's child following the Graduateship Programme (Since 50% concession is already by CCS, this will amount to a 100% waiver) Any member who has paid membership fees for life (after 3years of such payment) is entitled for these benefits. All members are advised to pay the membership fee for life and become beneficiaries.

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 35 Taurine - A therapeutic agent? Dr. Chandani Udawatte College of Chemical Sciences, Institute of Chemistry Ceylon, Rajagiriya

A growing number of reports advocate the use of the spread of apoptosis to neighboring cells through the taurine and related compounds as therapeutic agents for gap junctions with which they are coupled. The a wide range of disorders that induce apoptosis in procedure enabled to examine the effects of taurine on tissues throughout the body. Taurine is known to be a the induction and spread of apoptosis in ARPE-19, an free radical scavenger and an antagonist to oxidative immortalized cell line derived from human RPE. stress in protecting heart, lung, and liver cells from cell Connexin expression: The cellular localization of death, and it has proven useful as an anticonvulsant in Cx43 and Cx46, gap junctional proteins expressed by reducing epileptic seizures. In addition, there is good ARPE-19 cells, a human retinal epithelium cell line, evidence to show that taurine, one of the major was examined by immunocytochemistry (Figure 1). constituents of the mammalian central nervous system, Connexin expression and Gap Junctional Intercellular is essential for normal retinal development. The Communication are prerequisites for the intercellular concentration of taurine in the distal layers, including spread of cell death by toxic agents generated during photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), apoptosis in experimental protocol. Cells were plated of the vertebrate retina is estimated to be 60–80 mM. on sterile 35 mm plastic dishes, grown to near

Although taurine's precise function has often been confluence, washed with PBS (17 mM KH2PO4, 5 mM

speculative, numerous studies have shown that a Na2HPO4, 150 mM NaCl), and fixed either with 4% taurine deficient diet, or the inhibition of taurine paraformaldehyde in PBS, or in buffered methanol, transport, causes photoreceptor loss and RPE which was composed of 90% methanol, 10 mM

abnormalities in a variety of animal species including HEPES, 0.1 mM MgCl2, and 0.1 mM EGTA, chilled to primates. - 20 °C. Similar findings were obtained with both Interestingly, despite the high oxygen fixatives. The cells were then permeabilized in 0.1% consumption required to meet the energy demand of Triton-X-100 for 10 min at room temperature then cells of the distal retina, more proximal retinal layers blocked for 2 h at 37 °C in a solution containing either exhibit a greater susceptibility to metabolic or 3% fetal calf serum or 10% goat serum in PBS. They hypoxic/ischemic insult. Indeed, it appears likely that were incubated overnight at 4 °C in a polyclonal rabbit photoreceptors and RPE cells are rendered resistant to anticonnexin 43 antibody against a synthetic peptide metabolic insufficiencies by an endogenous agent that corresponding to a segment of the third cytoplasmic serves either to prevent apoptosis or to suppress the domain of rat connexin43. Antibody binding was spread of cell death across the layers of cells that visualized by fluorescent microscopy using goat constitute the RPE and the photoreceptors, each of antirabbit Alexa 488 secondary antibody as well as which is linked to its neighbors by gap junctions. with a sheep antirabbit FITC secondary antibody. Cells To determine whether taurine exerts a protective were similarly examined for the expression of effect on the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), the connexin 46, by incubating with a polyclonal rabbit human RPE (ARPE-19) cell line was used as a model anticonnexin 46 antibody and a donkey antirabbit cy3 system. These cells were exposed to a cytotoxic agent, secondary antibody. Differential interference contrast cytochrome C (cyC), which has been shown previously (DIC), phase contrast, and fluorescence images were to induce apoptosis. Monolayer cultures of confluent collected using either a Zeiss Axiovert 100 M human RPE (ARPE-19) cells, which express gap- microscope or an Olympus Fluoview 300 confocal junctional proteins, were incubated in culture medium microscope. with or without taurine. After scrape loading cyC, a cytotoxic agent known to induce apoptosis was B introduced into the cells, these cells were assayed for caspase 3 activity and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining to determine the spread of apoptosis. A scrape-loading technique used earlier to study the spread of apoptosis through gap-junctional channels was modified. The method involves the introduction of cytochrome C (cyC) to trigger downstream caspase activity in a limited population of cultured cells, i.e., those opened to the extracellular milieu by the scrape, and to then assay by Figure 1: Connexin expression in ARPE-19 cells. A: immunocytochemistry and terminal deoxynucleotidyl Immunocytochemistry: B: Western blotting: Numbers transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining and lines to the right indicate the positions of molecular weight markers. Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 36 Intercellular communication: To determine whether with 10% FBS and 1% PS, either with (test) or without the RPE cells expressing connexins Cx43 and Cx46 (negative control) the addition of 20 mM taurine. formed communicating junctions with their neighbors, Additionally, cells were incubated with 10 mM octanol with a point of a scalpel blade a region of the (Sigma), a substance known to block intercellular gap monolayer was gently cut . The cells were then bathed junctional communication. Whether the ARPE-19 for 5 min in 1 ml PBS solutions supplemented with 100 cells have an endogenous supply of taurine was not µl of a 0.05% solution of Lucifer yellow and 100 µl of 5 determined, but there is evidence that despite mg/ml solution of dextran rhodamine B, 10000 MW, numerous passages this cell line contains a taurine neutral. Thereafter, the LY-DR solution was exchanged transporter to promote the entry of extracellular for the normal growth medium, and the cells were taurine. After removing the growth medium, the cells incubated at 37 °C for 1 h. LY is able to traverse the were immersed in a PBS solution containing 100 µl of aqueous pores of gap junctions, which typically allow 1 mM cyC, and a gentle touch with the blade of a the passage of ions and small molecules ≤ 1 kDa, mechanical tissue chopper produced the “scrape” into whereas the DR complex can only enter the cells that which cyC entered the damaged cells. In this were injured by the scrape. The cells were fixed briefly connection, it is important to note that cyC(12.3 kDa) (approximately 15 min) with 4% paraformaldehyde, is neither membrane permeable nor can it traverse the washed once with PBS, mounted with Vectashield, and pores of gap-junctional channels. The cells were examined by fluorescent microscopy (Figure 2). incubated in the cyC solution at room temperature for 5 min after which growth medium containing 20 mM taurine was added to the cyC solution bathing the “test” cells, which were then incubated in the mixture for 2 h at 37 °C. Cells exposed to octanol were treated in the same manner as taurine-incubated cells, and they were incubated at 37 °C for 2 h in growth medium containing octanol after induction of apoptosis with cyC. After repeated rinses in PBS to remove the cyC, the cells were fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde overnight at 4 °C and prepared for histochemical analysis. In examining the figures depicting caspase 3 activation and TUNEL staining (Figure 3 and Figure 4), it is important to recognize that most of the cells incorporating cyC immediately adjacent to the scrape had died and do not appear in the figures, having been washed away in the rinses used to remove the cyC.

Caspase 3 activity and TUNEL staining—Cysteine dependent aspartate-directed proteases (caspases) play a prominent role in apoptosis [32, 33], and caspase 3 activity provides a reliable reporter of cells undergoing apoptosis; DNA degradation revealed by TUNEL staining is also considered to be a major indicator of apoptosis. Briefly, immunocytochemistry Figure 2 for the presence of caspase 3 activity was performed Dye spread in electrically coupled cells. Gap junctions using a rabbit polyclonal antibody against cleaved mediate the spread of Lucifer yellow (LY), indicating caspase 3. The caspase 3 antibody was diluted 1:100; that junctional permeability and the system of the secondary antibody was donkey antirabbit cy3. intercellular communication are intact. Arrowheads in In the TUNEL assay, partially degraded DNA is all panels show the location of the small injury (scrape) labeled with fluorescein-dUTP by using terminal produced by the tip of the scalpel blade. Fluorescent deoxynucleotidyltransferase (TdT) to introduce the images of cells incorporating both dextran rhodamine nucleotide preferentially into 3' strand breaks [34]. (DR) and LY show that whereas the rhodamine After induction of apoptosis by cyC, the cells were complex did not spread from the site of the scrape treated according to the manufacturer's instructions for (middle panel), LY spread through the gap junctions TUNEL staining. The cells were washed three times that coupled the cells (lower panel). Scale bar (upper with PBS and fixed with 4% paraformaldehyde in PBS panel) equals 50 µm. for 1 h at room temperature. They were then rinsed with PBS, incubated for 2 min with an ice-cold Scrape loading cytochrome C and apoptotic assays: permeabilization solution containing 0.1% Triton X- Cells grown to confluency in 35-mm plastic dishes 100 in 0.1% sodium citrate, and rinsed again with PBS. were incubated overnight in DMEM supplemented Next, 5 µl of TdT and 45 µl of TUNEL label solution

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 37 were mixed well and added to the cells, which were shown in Figure 1. ARPE-19 cells exhibited the allowed to incubate at 37 °C for 1 h in a closed punctate labeling characteristic of connexin plaques humidified chamber. After two rinses in PBS, the cells on each of the RPE cells in the field of the microscope. were mounted in Vectashield and viewed under the Punctate staining along the margin between cells was fluorescent microscope. especially clear with anti-Cx43, and Cx labeling at the cell surface was also evident. Image acquisition and processing—Cells examined for dye transfer and immunocytochemistry were visualized with a Zeiss Axiovert 100 M microscope through either a plan-Neofluar 20X/0.5 or an Achroplan 40X/0.6 phase objective, and photographed with a SensiCam CCD camera (resolution 1280x1024; Cooke Corp., Auburn Hills, MI). Image processing was controlled by MetaMorph software. For each of the assays indicated, we determined the number of cells staining for a specific marker within a 9.6 × 105 µm2 field that included the site of the scrape. Computing the ratio of stained cells to the entire cell population within the field gave the percentage values indicated by the histograms shown in Figure 5. Statistical analysis was performed using Student’s t-test; differences at p<0.05 were considered significant.

Figure 4. Apoptosis visualized by TUNEL. TUNEL staining of ARPE-19 cells incubated in the presence of cytochrome C (cyC) with (middle panels) or without (upper panels) exposure to taurine also showed that significantly fewer cells were undergoing cyC- induced apoptosis in the presence of taurine. Octanol had a similar effect to taurine in blocking the spread of cell death induced by cyC (lower panels). Scale bars represent 50 µm.

In this respect the labeling is similar to that seen on other non-neuronal cell types, e.g., astrocytes. Immunoblot analysis further confirmed Cx43 expression on ARPE19 cells. As described previously, anti-Cx43 labeled multiple bands representing different phosphorylation states of the protein [25]. Prominent bands at approximately 69 kDa and 52 kDa are near the sizes reported for major upper and lower Figure 3: Cell death revealed by caspase 3 activity. In phosphorylated forms of Cx43; other minor bands the absence of taurine or the gap-junctional channel were also detected. The arrow at 43 kDa identifies the blocker octanol, an antibody to active caspase 3 shows position of a weak band at the size expected for the that cell death induced by incubation with cytochrome nonphosphorylated form of Cx43. Phosphorylation is C (cyC) was widespread, extending to cells beyond the implicated in the regulation of a variety of connexin scrape (upper panels). In contrast, cell death in the processes, and the finding of multiple phosphorylated presence of taurine (middle panels) or octanol (lower Cx43 species in ARPE19 cells suggests involvement panels) was limited primarily to cells along the lines of of this connexin isoform in the formation of functional the scrape. White lines indicate the position and gap junction channels. The gap junctions formed in approximate extent of the scrape. Scale bars represent apposed cells are permeable to LY, a tracer that 50 µm provides an index of junctional permeability. As shown in the images in Figure 2, when a small incision The expression of Cx43 and Cx46 in the cells used in is produced in the monolayer of ARPE-19 cells and this study was examined with immunocytochemical then exposed to a solution containing LY and DR, cells and immunoblotting techniques. Typical results are remote from the site of injury were filled with LY. In

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 38 contrast, the larger DR complex is confined to the site activity and n=3 for the TUNEL assay. “casp 3” refers of the lesion. These results demonstrate that connexins to activated caspase 3 immunocytochemistry and are expressed in the cell line used for this study, and “cyC” refers to cyctochrome C. that the system of intercellular communication is intact. Figure 3 illustrates the effects of taurine on the Taurine (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid) is often spread of cyC-induced apoptosis revealed by the referred to as a“conditionally- or semi-essential amino antibody to cleaved caspase 3. These images show that acid” because it is not used in protein synthesis. before introducing taurine (upper panels), cell death However, it is important to recall that taurine is spread to many cells remote from the site of injury ubiquitous in nature and is the most abundant amino (white lines in the images in the second column). acid in excitable cells and tissues throughout the body. However, in the presence of taurine (middle row of It comprises a large percentage of the total free amino images), or by adding the gap-junctional blocker acids in the heart, kidney and plasma and is vital for octanol(lower row of images), there is virtually no normal development. It is present in high spread of cell death beyond the site of injury. A similar concentrations in skeletal muscle and in liver, where it result was obtained with the TUNEL assay for plays a significant role in conjugation of bile acids. apoptosis. As shown in Figure 4, TUNEL staining was Many of the physiologic functions in which it has been observed in cells remote from the location of the scrape implicated have yet to be clearly defined, but there is in cells exposed to cyC only (upper panels). However evidence that taurine interacts with various in the presence of taurine (middle panels) or octanol neurotransmitter systems, participates in membrane (lower panels), TUNEL staining was observed almost stabilization, and is effective in modulating numerous exclusively in cells near the site of the scrape (white calcium-dependent processes. In addition, there is new lines). Cell death was assayed by determining the evidence indicating that taurine is able to inhibit fraction of cells within each dish that displayed either apoptosis by preventing formation of the apoptosome, caspase 3 activity or TUNEL labeling. Averaged data a key element in the deleterious action of obtained in 3 (TUNEL) and 4 (caspase 3) separate mitochondrial-derived cytochrome C leading to the experiments under each condition are illustrated in caspase-mediated apoptotic cascade. Clearly there are Figure 5. As shown in the bar graphs, taurine reduced several avenues by which taurine can act to protect cell death by more than 80% and was clearly as RPE cells from cell death, and they would explain in effective as the gap junction blocker octanol in this large part both the present experimental findings and regard. Although the effects of taurine and related the resistance of the outer retina to metabolic insult. aminosulfonates on gap junctions have been reported Moreover, the loss of these properties may account for in numerous studies on a variety of different tissues, the multiple abnormalities in the visual, the results have not been consistent and often depend cardiovascular, and reproductive systems when on the type of connexin expressed. taurine is depleted from the diet of animals deficient in cysteine sulfinic acid decarboxylase, an essential enzyme for the biosynthesis of taurine from cysteine or methionine. Nevertheless, it remains to be seen whether the effects of taurine reported here result from one or more of the foregoing mechanism or by activating some other intracellular pathway that inhibits the cell death process. Numerous studies have reported that cell death signals induced by cyC and other agents can be transmitted through the aqueous pores of gap junctions to adversely affect their neighbors, but that this so-called “bystander effect” can be suppressed by blocking the gap junctional Figure 5: Quantification of cell death. Percent cell channels connecting the various cell types. Thus there death was determined with activated caspase 3 was the possibility that taurine exerts its beneficial immunocytochemistry and TUNEL assay. The effect by blocking the propagation of apoptosis percentage cell death was reduced by approximately through the intercellular channels that couple RPE 80% in the presence of taurine or the gap junctional cells, a possibility strengthened by reports that in some blocker octanol, (p<0.001, comparing taurine- or cell types gap junctional communication is inhibited octanol-treated group means to respective cyC-only by taurine. Although this study does not address control means; ANOVA with Student-Newman-Keuls directly a putative role for taurine in diabetic post hoc testing). The reduction in percentage cell retinopathy, it is noteworthy that its effectiveness in death in the presence of taurine was statistically suppressing organ lipid peroxidation and in reducing indistinguishable from that in the presence of octanol insulin resistance has led to the suggestion that taurine (p>0.05). Error bars depict SEM; n=4 for caspase may be beneficial in preventing or ameliorating

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 39 hyperglycemia-induced retinal defects. In humans TUDCA. However, it is important to stress that in its and in animal models, diabetes is consistently unconjugated form, ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) associated with a progressive increase in a range of has proven to be efficacious in the treatment of abnormalities affecting the structural and functional gallstones and cholestatic liver diseases. When properties of neurons and blood vessels of the inner delivered subcutaneously, as done in the Boatright et retina. These findings are in contrast to the seemingly al. study, UDCA may be equally effective in milder effects of diabetes on the blood retinal barrier suppressing photoreceptor cell death. (BRB) and cells of the outer retina. Although there are CyC, too large a molecule to traverse gap reports of reduced amplitude electroretinogram junctional channels, produced apoptosis in cells potentials generated by the photoreceptors and RPE, injured by the scrape as well as those distant from the as well as evidence of a small reduction in the site of the scrape, presumably by the intercellular thickness of the outer nuclear layer, the transmission of a toxic agent through the gap pathophysiological changes are neither as consistent junctions that couple these cells. Incubation in nor as profound as those seen in the inner retina. This taurine, or the gap-junction blocker, octanol, before is somewhat surprising considering the highly application of cyC, reduced significantly the fraction vascular capillary bed (choriocapillaris) that of cells undergoing apoptosis. Results indicate that nourishes cells of the outer retina, the accumulation of taurine can serve to suppress cell death in RPE cells glucose within the RPE in response to hyperglycemia, independent of any effect on gap junctions. Various and the glucose transport properties of the avenues were considered by which taurine can exert photoreceptors and RPE. Clearly, the high its protective effect, but the precise mechanism concentrations of taurine in the RPE and involved under these experimental conditions has yet photoreceptors may contribute to the relative sparing to be identified. of the distal retina, which occurs despite the fact that hyperglycemia causes altered expression of the tight- References junctional protein occludin, an increase in the lipid ?Timbrell JA, Seabra V, Waterfield CJ. The in content of the RPE, and permeability defects in the vivo and in vitro protective properties of taurine. RPE. Nevertheless, the data on the beneficial effects Gen Pharmacol 1995;26:453-62. [PMID: of taurine supplementation in diabetes are still too 7789717] sparse to be considered significant, and further ?Huxtable RJ. Taurine in the central nervous biochemical and physiologic experimentation system and the mammalian actions of taurine. addressing this important issue is clearly warranted. Prog Neurobiol 1989;32:471-533. [PMID: Lastly, it has not escaped our notice that the present 2664881] results provide a possible mechanism for the ?Udawatte C, Ripps H. The spread of apoptosis protective effects of tauroursodeoxycholic acid through gapjunctional channels in BHK cells (TUDCA) reported by Boatright et al. In their study, transfected with Cx32. Apoptosis 2005; 10:1019- the authors provide convincing evidence that 29.[PMID :16151637] TUDCA, a taurine containing derivative of bile acid, ?Sosinsky GE, Nicholson BJ. Structural protects photoreceptors from genetically mediated organization of gap junction channels. Biochim and photically induced cell death. This agent, which B i o p h y s A c t a 2 0 0 5 ; 1 7 1 1 :9 9 - 1 2 5 . has been shown to prevent apoptosis in a broad [PMID:15925321] spectrum of neurologic and systemic diseases, is ?Leibach JW, Cool DR, Del Monte MA, deconjugated by the bacterial flora of the intestinal Ganapathy V, Leibach FH, Miyamoto Y. lumen to release taurine. Thus, it may not be Properties of taurine transport in a human retinal inapposite to suggest that taurine could be the active pigment epithelial cell line. Curr Eye Res substance underlying the therapeutic actions of 1993;12:29-36.[PMID :8436008]

Graduate Chemists Welfare Fund This fund has been established with effect from 1-1-2012. The principal benefits towards CCS Graduate Chemists would be, a) To provide partial assistance towards international travel of those proceeding abroad for PG degrees (once a life time) b) To provide partial assistance towards registration fees in respect of IChemC/CCS events such as International Conferences (Preference for those presenting papers) c) To provide assistance towards registration fees for IChemC/CCS training seminars etc. d) To provide partial assistance towards activities of the Alumni Association. Note: Depending on the demand, Graduate Chemists who maintain positive content and participate in IChemC/Alumni activities will get preference for the above mentioned benefits.

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 40 Polyphenylenes: Synthetic advances towards the nanostructures Dr. Buddhie S. Lankage College of Chemical Sciences, Institute of Chemistry Ceylon, Rajagiriya

Polyphenylenes polyphenylenes are non-conducting polymers, Polyphenylenes contain two or more conjugated because extended π–conjugation is hindered due to benzene or aryl rings that are attached to form their tightly packed and twisted phenylene units.9 The differently patterned molecules in varying size and properties of hyperbranched polyphenylenes make shape. Phenylene-based conjugated materials can them promising candidates for applications as provide versatile platforms for the development of insulating materials in microelectronics, where graphene sheets via cyclodehydrogenation. Their features including high thermal stability, good characteristic features are high thermal stability, good processability, solubility and low moisture absorption solubility and processability, and a dense packing are required.9 arrangement with strongly twisted phenylene rings. Dendrimers (Figure 1 (f)), which are highly Their properties are related to their size, substitution, branched and structurally regular molecules, are shape and functionality, and these features can be popular in life and materials science9 because of their optimised to obtain advantageous electronic special properties such as globular shape, controlled properties.1 size, chemical composition and multivalent periphery These properties have encouraged the synthesis (several oxidation positions). Functionalisation and of different types of polyphenylenes over the past two the supramolecular chemistry of dendrimers are the decades; these can be categorised as linear (a),2 most rapidly expanding areas of dendrimer research.5 hexagonal-shaped (b),3 star-shaped (c),3 hyper Functionalisation of dendrimers either at the branched (d),7 ribbon type (e)4 and dendrimers (f)5 periphery or at the core will alter their properties.7 (Figure 1). Dendrimers assembled among themselves5 or with other guest molecules, creates a wide collection of novel structures and surfaces with new and promising (a) properties.5 (b) Linear and conjugated polymer and hyperbranched polyphenylenes have been studied (c) widely as luminescent materials because of their blue- O emitting feature. Blue light emitting polyphenylenes are largely interested in using organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs). 8 The OLEDs technology (d) n development had led to new discoveries in this area (e) such as in solution and solid state luminescent materials could be used as the light-emitting layer in OLED. Even in the polymer chemistry the blue emitting polymers is restricted mainly by polyphenylenes.8 Wide band gaps allowing emission of blue light (400-450 nm) are typical for polyphenylenes. In addition, the linear oligo- polyphenylenes can be regarded as the backbone from which multidimensional polyphenylene systems can (f) be produced by functionalisation and structural variation. Figure 1: Representative polyphenylenes (a) linear,2 Many polyphenylene systems have attracted (b) hexagonal,3 (c) star-shaped,3 (d) hyperbranched interest as precursors in the formation of fused polymer,7 (e) stepwise polymer or ribbon4 and (f) polyaromatic hydrocarbons. Hexaphenylbenzenes dendrimers.5 (Figure 1 (b)) have drawn attention as precursors to a class of molecules known collectively as Hyperbranched polyphenylene polymers (Figure superbenzenes or star-type hexabenzocoronenes 1 (d)) have become well-established compounds in (HBCs, Scheme 1 (b)), which were synthesised via polymer chemistry.6 They usually feature a high cyclodehydrogenation of hexaarylbenzenes (Scheme density of functional groups, a globular shape, high 1 (a)). These substituted HBCs exhibit a range of thermal stability and good solubility and notable physical, chemical and photophysical processability, comparable to the properties of the properties, e.g., thermal stability,3 good solubility, corresponding dendrimers. However, in contrast to processability,10 and interesting electrical and t h e i r l i n e a r a n a l o g u e s , h y p e r b r a n c h e d optoelectronic properties.3 It is important from the

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 41 synthetic point of view that HBCs are of good hexaphenylbenzene unless an asymmetric acetylene manageable size and shape by which to alter the is used. R substitution patterns and solubility. Therefore, HBCs R have the added advantage of investigating their R R various characteristic properties in either the solid [Co 2(CO )8] state or in solution using different techniques. This 3 allows HBCs to be studied in more detail than the highly insoluble large sheets and globular-shaped R R R (a) graphenes which were synthesised from R polyphenylenes such as those shown in Figure 1 (d), R = H, n-alkyl, t-butyl, alkylesters (e) and (f). Scheme 2: Cyclotrimerisation ([2+2+2] cycloaddition) R R R R R R.. The synthesis of the star-like hexa(para-diphenyl-4- cyclodehydrogenation yl)benzene (Figure 1 (c)) is via cyclotrimerisation using para-diphenyl-4-yl acetylene. Like-wise, R R R R.. oligophenylene-substituted acetylenes can be use to (a) (b) R R produce wide range of star-shape polyphenylenes. R = H, alkyl, alkylphenyl, alkylesters

tBu tBu (ii) The Intermolecular [4+2]-Cycloaddition of Tetraarylcyclopentadien-1-one to Suitable t tBu N Bu N Arylacetylene Derivatives N N cyclodehydrogenation Diels-Alder [2+4] cycloaddition reaction, is the most N N versatile synthetic route to achieve a broad spectrum tBu N tBu N of diversely functionalized hexaarylbenzene (c) (d) tBu tBu derivatives using suitably substituted diarylacetylenes S c h e m e 1 : C y c l o d e h y d r o g e n a t i o n o f (b) (dienophile) and 2,3,4,5-tetraarylcyclopenta-2,4- hexaarylbenzenes (a) and (c) to give functionalised dien-1-ones (tetracyclones) (a) (diene) (Scheme 3). hexa-peri-hexabenzocoronene (HBC) (b),3 and R1 1 0 R3 nitrogen-heterosuperbenzene (N-HSB) (d) R1 R R2 R3 respectively. 2 CO O +

Incorporation of long-chain alkyl or alkoxy R2 R2 R3 R (c) groups at the periphery can induce discotic liquid (a) 1 R3 (b) R1 crystalline properties to HBC compounds. These HBC R1, R2, R3 = H, n-alkyl, t-butyl, methoxy graphite segments self-assemble to form columnar superstructures.4 Incorporation of nitrogen into Scheme 3: Diels-Alder [2+4] cycloaddition reaction. hexaarylbenzenes (Scheme 1 (c)) towards the In addition to the synthesis of hexaarylbenzene formation of nitrogen-heterosuperbenzenes (N- derivatives the capacity of this Diels-Alder reaction HSBs) (Scheme 1 (d)) have shown added advantages can be extended using different types of acetylenes such as the nitrogen atoms are ideally positioned for (dienophiles) (c-d) and cyclopentadienones (dienes) (a-b) (Figure 2) as precursors for larger all-benzenoid bidentate coordination to metal centres, increased 10 hydrocarbons with various topologies. This synthetic solubility and charge transfer character. strategy has been employed as a step growth reaction in the formation of linear (a), hyperbranched (d),7 Routes to Branched Polyphenylenes ribbon (e)4 and dendrimer (f)5 polyphenylenes (Figure The various types of polyphenylenes discussed above 1). are obtained from two types of synthetic routes: (i) cobalt-catalysed cyclotrimerisation of suitable The reactivity of the diene and dienophile in a Diels- diarylacetylene derivatives and (ii) by repetitive Alder reaction is influenced by their respective i n t e r m o l e c u l a r [ 4 + 2 ] c y c l o a d d i t i o n o f substituents. The most favoured reactant combination t e t r a a r y l c y c l o p e n t a d i e n o n e t o s u i t a b l e is that of an electron-rich diene and an electron-poor diarylacetylene derivatives. dienophile. This combination of reactants is associated with a decrease in the energy gap between (i) The Cyclotrimerization of Suitable the interacting frontier molecular orbitals i.e. the Arylacetylene Derivatives highest occupied molecular orbitals (HOMOs) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals (LUMOs). For The intermolecular [2+2+2] cycloaddition of three example, methoxy groups on the diene cause an unsaturated units to form three new σ-bonds (Scheme 1 1 increase of reactivity in a 'normal demand' Diels- 2). This reaction only allows identical Alder reaction because of the resonance effect of the functionalisation of the phenyl substituents on the methoxy groups to the diene.12

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 42 R R R R 2 O 2 4 O 4 polymers which possess two-dimensional planar confirmation, high electron delocalisation and functional optic-electronic properties, attract great scientific interest because of potential applications in R1 R1 R3 (a) (b) areas such as electroluminescence, plastic lasers and R 3 molecular electronics.4 R R R R 5 5 7 7 Reference (c) (d) 1. S. Mueller, Philos. Trans. R. Soc., A 2007, 365, 1453.

R6 R6 2. C. Yang, Macromol. Chem. Phys. 2006, 207, (e) 1107. 3. J. Wu, Chem. Rev. 2007, 107, 718. F i g u r e 2 : D i f f e r e n t t y p e s o f 4. L. Gherghel, Macromolecules 2003, 36, 7082. tetraarylcyclopentadienones (tetracyclones) (a-b) and 5. D. Liu, Macromolecules 2003, 36, 8489. diarylacetylenes (c-d) which leads to give dendrimers 6. H. Zhang, Langmuir 2002, 18, 2385. and highperbrached polyphenylenes via Dields-Alder 7. K. Stumpe, Macromol. Chem. Phys. 2006, 207, [2+4] cycloaddition reaction. 1825. 8. I. A. Khotina, J. Lumin. 2004, 110, 232. The oxidative cyclodehydrogenation of these 9. A. J. Berresheim, Chem. Rev. 1999, 99, 1747. three-dimensional simple hexaarylbenzenes to 10. D. Gregg, J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2002, 124, 3486. branched oligopolyphenylenes gives coronenes, 11. K. P. C. Vollhardt, Angew. Chem. 1984, 96, 525. superbenzenes, superacene-trimers, combined linear- 12. G. Solomons, Organic Chemistry, 7th Edition, and trimer-HBC, ladder type and stepladder graphite 1999. segments in high yields. These graphenes and

Diploma in Laboratory Technology in Chemistry 37th Batch (2009/11)

Honours Pass (6) D M Perera, A K M S Perera, T A V Fernando, E R De Silva, W D G L Kumara, A H J Athukorala

Merit Pass (18) K.W.N. Dayarathne, R.M.N. Dinesh, D D Perera, C.G.Ravindran, W.A.N. Saman Kumari, C.M. Manimendra, S M F Rushda, B.K.I. Pushpakumara, W.B.P.P. Rajarathna, K.H.M.A.Kulathunga, M R F Rumaiza, L.L.N.A. Alwis, K G O S Silva, W.A. Gominda, W.M.C.D. Wanasinghe, H.M.S. Athulasena, A.V.K.M. Gunawardana, S.A.S.S. Siriwardhana

Ordinary pass (32) K.M.M.P.M.B. Godakumbura, W.U. Rajapaksha, W Ajith, J Nanthakumar, U.P. Wagaarachchi, V.P. Chaminda, K.K.S. Udayana, A N V Wijewardana, D H S De Silva, B N P Bulathsinghalage, M A S R K Kumara, H.P.R.K. Buddhika, H.L.M.R. Bandara, U.K.D.H. Dineshika, H P P K Jayathilake, M.P.B. Warakaulla, K.M.S.P.Kumara, H A D N K Horadagoda, N.W.H.K Padmali, R.L.Karunarathne, K.A.S. Eroshanie, D A I Madusankanie, M.N. Meedeniya, U.L.R. Senanayake, N V N Nuran, S S Thilakarathne, M F S M Arshard, S J N Rathnapriya, W P S S Wanasinghe, S N Wickramarachchi, M H P Ishama, M B S P Batagala DLTC Overall Prize List-2011 First Prize G C N Jayasuriya Award for the Best Performance D M Perera Second Prize A K M S Perera Third Prize T A V Fernando Mr P R K Fernando's prize for Industrial and Food Chemistry D D Perera Mrs M N K De S Goonathilake's prize for Clinical Laboratory Technology D M Perera

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 43 Devanathan Memorial Lecture Dr. Devanathan I knew …… A Tribute to a Teacher Dr Samson Hettiarachchi Consultant, Electrical Power Research Institute, USA

Professor Sotheeswaran, President Institute of metal dissolution and deposition of mechanically Chemistry; Professor J.N.O. Fernando, Rector, College strained electrodes was one of a kind original work that of Chemical Sciences; Dr. Jonas Fernando, Chief Guest; was done by using a mechanical lathe to strain copper Distinguished Guests, wires through an electrolytic cell. I followed this latter It is indeed an honor and a privilege for me to stand work keenly, but little did I know at the time that 20 years in front of this august audience and deliver this later I would be working in the same area at the Nuclear commemoration lecture about an individual who has Energy Division of the General Electric Company to earned my great admiration and highest respect. Dr. solve problems related to stress corrosion cracking in the Devanathan was my teacher, my mentor and was a power generating industry. guiding light to me in many ways. Dr. Devanathan was Most of us know about Dr. Devanathan's one of the best scientists produced by Sri Lanka at the contribution to better understand the electrified interface. time. His reputation as an eminent electrochemist was But, there is another important invention that Dr. world renowned. He was the very embodiment of a true Devanathan made that has often gone unnoticed. This scientist. Although 34 years have passed since his invention relates to measuring hydrogen permeation untimely demise, the impressions of his personality through metallic materials in order to prevent their failure remains still living and vivid upon the minds of many of by hydrogen embrittlement. This was done by using a us. Dr. Devanathan was not just a man with high well known electrochemical cell called the Devanathan- intellectual capacity but also a man with a touch of Starchuski cell, and the work was done at the University genius that we all recognized. He took the best of the of Pennsylvania. This technique has a lot of best in the world head on with no malice or arrogance to technological implications, and it is still being used even prove a point. His only goal was to understand the today by many to study hydrogen diffusion through scientific truth, the goal he pursued relentlessly. metallic materials. Some of the people he challenged were giants in the Dr. Devanathan was also a prolific, brilliant and an field of electrochemistry on his path to unraveling the articulate writer who could write scientific papers with mystery of the electrical double layer, that ultimately led impeccable clarity. to the Bockris, Devanathan, Muller model. Dr. Dr. Michael Angelo Vincent Devanathan graduated Devanathan had an unceasing determination and an with a B.Sc.(First Class Honours) in Chemistry from the unquenchable thirst to succeed in whatever research he University of Ceylon in 1947. He obtained his Ph.D. did or directed. He was not afraid to get in to unfamiliar from the University of London in 1951 for his territories and ask the question, why not?. His move to contributions to the theory of the electrical double layer. Tea Research Institute is a good example. In this regard, He returned to the University of Ceylon in 1952 and I would like to quote one of the great presidents of the continued his research in the field of Physical Chemistry United States of America, John F. Kennedy Jr. President of the electrified interface. He produced 3 M.Scs and 10 Kennedy said, and I quote, “some men see things as they Ph.Ds through his research. are and ask why; I dream things that never were and ask In his career, Dr. Devanathan served as Associate why not?”, end of quote. It was this kind of dream and the Director of Research at the University of Pennsylvania, urge to succeed that fueled Dr. Devanathan's enthusiasm Assistant Director at Central Electrochemical Research in science, an enthusiasm that was infectious to all Institute in Karaikudi in India, Head of Physical around him. Chemistry CISIR, and finally as Director, Tea Research Dr. Devanathan was a strong believer that, even Institute, Talawakelle. though we came from a small country called Ceylon at Dr. Devanathan had over 25 patents in Sri Lanka, the time, in intellectual capacity we could match anyone India and the U.K. He won the all India Invention in the western world. He instilled this confidence among Promotion Award for his work on alkaline MnO2 battery all of us who worked with him. His work on the for high capacity cells, a Gold Medal at the All India electrical double layer is a great testament to this belief. Industrial Exhibition for invention of an air depolarized Dr. Devanathan produced some outstanding and cell and a plaque from the University of Pennsylvania for dedicated scientists like late Prof. Mrs. Pereira and Dr. his contribution to electrochemistry. Jonas Fernando, both of whom did postgraduate degrees He published about 80 research papers, majority of with Dr. Devanathan. Dr. Mrs Pereira's work on which were in prestigious international journals, some in electrocapilarity is well known that led to a greater and a Transactions of the Faraday Society. For his authoritative deeper understanding of the inner workings of the contributions to the Physical Chemistry of Electrified electrical double layer. Dr. Jonas Fernando's work on Interfaces, in 1964, Dr. Devanathan was awarded the

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 44 D.Sc. (cum laude) by the University of London. observation to him. Soon we realized why he wanted us to I would now like to give you some of my personal repeat this work, he believed that the multiple peaks were impressions about Dr. Devanathan. I first met Dr. an experimental artifact. He wanted us to repeat the work Devanathan when I was an undergraduate at the with mercury atoms frozen on a gold electrode, sure enough University of Colombo. It was the month of May in there was only one peak corresponding to anodic 1969, as special degree students in Chemistry we were monolayer formation of cadmium hydroxide. I continued awaiting his arrival at the Chemistry Lecture Theater. I this work at the CISIR in the evenings after my graduation vividly remember, Dr. Devanathan walking in to the until I left for my Ph.D. This was one of the most rewarding Lecture Theater in his usual unassuming manner and exciting times of my career with Dr. Devanathan. scanning through all of our faces with an innocent smile Three years later in 1975, on my return after the Ph.D., on his face before beginning the lecture, a smile that we I learnt that Dr. Devanathan had left the CISIR and assumed have rarely seen among other lecturers. After a couple of duties as the Director of TRI, but we continued our lectures, I soon realized that this is the man I could learn technical interaction. I would visit him when he came to from and want to work with in the future. Colombo for Board meetings. Even though he could have The same year I was assigned to Dr. Devanathan to stayed in a lavish hotel in Colombo, he used to stay in a do my third year Seminar along with two of my small guest house opposite the Ramakrishna mission in colleagues. When we approached Dr. Devanathan to get Wellawatte. I used to visit him there, and he would show me our seminar topics, he asked all three of us to talk about the work he was doing on applying the Physical Chemistry just one topic, “water”. This became a puzzle to us principles to plant growth. I would show him the work that because we were not sure how 3 of us could talk about I was doing on repassivation kinetics with a few graduate water for one and a half hours. The following week we students. One of them, Mr. R.A.D. Kumarawickrema was met him again to get a better understanding of what he awarded the Ph.D. degree for this work. expected from us. He had absolute clarity as to what he It was early 1977, I came to know that Dr. Devanathan expected. He wanted one of us talk about physical was admitted to the Kandy hospital for a heart condition. properties of water, the second one to talk about the bulk The next day, I took the train to Kandy and visited him in the interactions and I got to talk about the interfacial hospital. He was in good spirit, his two daughters were interactions. This was one of the best learning periods of there by his bed side. All we talked about was work, none my time with Dr. Devanathan. about his heart ailment. He was describing to me how he When the time came for our research projects, I was was planning to hire a couple of chemists from CISIR to assigned to Dr. Devanathan to work on the TRI. I learnt that he was going to be released from the electrocrystallization of thin films of cadmium hospital in a few days time, and I travelled back to hydroxide. This required the use of mercury to prepare Colombo. Just a couple of weeks later I got the dreaded the cadmium amalgam. When I started reading about news that Dr. Devanathan had passed away. It shocked me, this work, I realized that this work had already been done beyond belief. at University of Newcastle back in 1967. It was puzzling A few of us got together, rented a van, travelled to to me why he wanted me to do this work, the reason I Tallawakelle to attend his funeral, in order to take one last realized only later on. Even though we had the purest look at this great man. Sadly, it was not to be, by the time form of mercury from the CISIR stores, Dr. Devanathan we got there, we were late by a mere ten minutes, his casket wanted us to distill the mercury, not once, not twice but was buried and the burial mound was already in place. We three times. He didn't stop there, he wanted us to silently prayed for him, sprinkled some earth on the burial electrolyze the mercury to remove the dissolved mound. The return trip to Colombo was quiet and very impurities. I vividly remember how we distilled the somber, in total darkness literally and metaphorically. mercury in a hood on the corridor just outside the With Dr. Devanathans's untimely demise, the scientific physical chemistry laboratory of the CISIR. The work world lost a brilliant electrochemist, Sri Lanka lost one of also required a special electrochemical cell. It was then her great sons, Mrs. Devanathan lost an affectionate that I realized that Dr. Devanathan was an avid glass husband, his four children lost a loving father, we lost a blower as well. He created a piece of art in making that great teacher of the highest order and a trusted friend. cell and showed Edwin, the Colombo University glass I have often wondered why good people have to die so blower, how to make a complicated electrochemical cell. young, Dr. Devanathan was just 52 years of age at the time I was able to reproduce the work done by the Newcastle of his death…..I am still looking for an answer to this group of scientists who were some of the best in the world question. at the time. The work constituted applying a potential Dr. Devanathan may be no more, but his legacy lives pulse and recording a current/time transient while the on, if not we wouldn't be talking about him today. anodic layer was being formed. The current-time I would like to end this part of my lecture with a quote transients showed multiple peaks just like those reported from one of the greatest scientists who ever lived in our era, by the Newcastle group. On close observation, I and one Albert Einstein. Einstein said, and I quote “Now he has of my colleagues noticed that the multiple peaks were departed from this strange world a little ahead of me. That related to oscillations of the free standing mercury signifies nothing. For us believing physicists the distinction column rather than to an electrochemical process. Dr. between past, present, and future is only a stubbornly Devanathan was thrilled when we reported this persistent illusion”, end of quote.

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 45 Eighth Convocation Awards & Prizes 2011 First Class Honours (12) Ms. P A M K Erangi, Ms. G Mayoorini, Mr. U D Hewagamage, Ms T G Vithanage, Ms. G D S Dassanayake, Mr. U L A S Perera, Mr. D C Senevirathna, Ms. P M D Amarawardena, Mr. K A D S Ravinatha, Ms. B G N D K Somatilaka, Ms M S Wickramasinghe, Mr. T P D Abeysinghe Second Class Honours (Upper Division) (20) Mr. B A T N Gunasekara, Ms. K G D L Kirinda, Ms. L D D Maheshika, Ms. M R M Perera, Mr. D W C L D Premawardhana, Ms. U V R Senaratne, Mr. J H S C Tissera, Ms. D C Wimalasiri, Ms. K A S J Kularathne, Mr. M T M Ansaf, Mr. B R Aravinda, Ms. A N Fernando, Ms. M M N Fernando, Mr. R M J S Hunukumbura, Mr. K C Jayathilaka, Mr. M Y R Perera, Ms. A R N Silva, Ms. J M H R S Peiris, Ms. K A De Silva, Ms. F N Jamal Second Class Honours (Lower Division) (14) Ms. T T D T Fernando, Mr. E W K Perera, Ms. R A U I Ranatunga, Ms. W D V K Subasingha, Ms. K G Vendabona, Ms. H A M Perera, Ms. A Dissanayake, Mr. P A A S P Kumara, Mr. K M P Kumarasinghe, Ms. J P Mariathas, Mr. S P T K Pathirana, Ms. H W V P Waravita, Ms. U Wegodapola, Ms. H G G Purnima Third Class Honours (15) Mr. H A L L Hettiarachchi, Ms. A H T N Jayamandira, Ms. T H E U Kulasooriya, Ms. H W U Kulathunga, Ms. V Sinthuja, Ms. T Dharushana,Ms. S A Xavier, Ms. H M D C K Herath, Ms. G L L M Dabera, Ms. S F Ghouse, Ms. D S Gunasekara, Ms. R Ratnarajah, Mr. S D Thalagalage, Mr. K A D Vinoy, Ms. P H Gamage Pass (22) : Ms. S R T Dharmasena, Ms. M M J S Fernando, Ms. B K I P Jayasinghe, Ms. W A M Madhavi, Mr. P D N S Sumanadasa, Ms. A A S A Adikari, Mr. K C Athapattu, Ms. K D Fonseka, Ms. S Mahathevan, Mr. S A J L Perera, Ms. M G S Y Ratnayake, Ms. D S Thabrew, Mr. V D Thanthirige, Ms. J W S L Jayewickrama, Mr. W G C S Amarasinghe, Ms. B Banureka, Ms. K Rubatharani, Ms. U L M Dissanayake, Ms. T Glanista, Ms. H M T M Siriwardhane, Ms. D C Liyanapathirana, Ms. M Weerasinghe GRADUATESHIP (OVERALL) AWARDS First Shireen Jayasuriya Memorial Gold Medal Ms P A M K Erangi Second Graduateship Silver Jubilee Commemoration Award Ms G Mayoorini Third Graduate Chemist (25th Batch passing out) Silver Jubilee Commemoration Award Mr U D Hewagamage AWARDS FOR OVERALL EXCELENCE IN ALL LEVELS OF STUDY (THEORY) Prof.J.K.P Ariyarathne Memorial Award for Overall Excellence in Inorganic Chemistry Ms P A M K Erangi Professor Leslie Gunatilake Award for Overall Excellence in Organic Chemistry Mr K A D S Ravinatha Haniffa Award for the Overall Excellence in Physical Chemistry Mr U L A S Perera LEVEL 3 & 4 OVERALL (THEORY) AWARDS First Royal Society of Chemistry (Sri Lanka) Section Award Ms G Mayoorini Second Professor and Mrs. H.W Dias Award Ms P A M K Erangi Third Ms. T G Vithanage BEST PERFORMER AWARDS FOR OVERALL EXCELLENCE IN CHEMISTRY PRACTICALS Professor R.S Ramakrishna Memorial Award Ms P A M K Erangi Mr & Mrs Sivarajah and Family Award Ms G Mayoorini B A Jayasinghe Memorial Award& College of Chemical Sciences Award Ms T G Vithanage & Mr. U D Hewagamage PRIZES FOR INDIVIDUAL COURSES Professor P.P.G.L Siriwardana Memorial Prize for Further Topics in Inorganic Chemistry Ms G Mayoorini Dr. Sudath Kumarasinghe Memorial Prize for Special Topics in Physical Chemistry Mr U LA S Perera Dharmachandra & Thamarasa Gunawardhana Memorial Prize for Analytical Chemistry Mr D W C L D Premawardhana P. Rohan . Fernando Prize for Special Topics in Chemistry Ms T G Vithanage Egodawatte G.Somapala Prize for Food Chemistry and Technology Ms T G Vithanage Professor Eugene de Silva Prize for Industrial Chemistry & Technology Ms P A M K Erangi Mevan Pieris Prize for Polymer Chemistry & Technology Ms P A M K Erangi Dr. Rohan Perera Prize for Chemical and Molecular Toxicology Ms P A M K Erangi Marina & R O B Wijesekera Prize for Molecular Biology & Biotechnology Mr R M J S HunukumburaPrize for Information Technology Mr B A T N Gunasekara Mr. & Ms. E Gajanayaka Memorial Prize for Atomic Absorption Spectrometry Mr S P T K Pathirana N.M.S Hettigedara Family Prize for Pharmaceutical & Medicinal Chemistry Mr U L A S Perera Mr & Mrs Suppiah and Seethadevi Prize for Analytical Industrial Biochemistry Ms G Mayoorini Prize for Agrochemicals Ms B G N D K Somathilaka Prize for Quality Management Mr D W C L D Premawardhana Susila Jayaweera Memorial Prize for Biochemistry II Ms G D S Dassanayake Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 46 PUBLICATIONS OF THE INSTITUTE OF CHEMISTRY CEYLON Monograph Title Author Price 01 Textile Fibers Mr T Rajasekeram Rs.50/- 02 Principles of Food Preservation Prof U Samarajeewa Rs.75/- 03 Biotechnology Prof C P D W Mathew Rs.75/- 04 Recombinant DNA Technology Prof J Welihinda Rs.75/- 05 Natural Toxins in Foodstuffs Prof E R Jansz & Ms A S Perera Rs.50/- 06 Fat Soluble Vitamins Prof E R Jansz & Ms S Malavidana Rs.50/- 07 Nucleic Acid and Protein Synthesis Prof J Welihinda Rs.75/- 08 Extraction of Energy from Food Prof J Welihinda Rs.50/- 09 Corrosion of Materials Dr A M M Amirudeen Rs.75/- 10 Vitamin C-Have all its mysteries Prof E R Jansz & Ms S T C Mahavithanage been Unravelled ? 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Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 47 RSC NEWS

THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF CHEMISTRY SRI LANKA SECTION

1. Membership 4 Activities According to the records sent to us from the parent 4.1 Contributions to Activities of the Institute of body, a breakdown of the membership is as Chemistry Ceylon follows:- (a) Full page advertisement of “Chemistry in Category Abbreviation Number Sri Lanka”. Fellow Life Member. F E L 05 (b) Annual Dinner Fellow C Chem. F C C 09 (c) Award for the Best Performance at the Member M E M 26 Graduate ship Examination in Chemistry Associate Member A M E 12 Part II Theory Examination Affiliate Member A F F 01 (d)Contributions for the International Affiliate /Under Graduate. A F U 02 Conference Total Membership as at March 2011 55 4.2 All - Island Inter School Chemistry Essay Competition. 2. Committee of Management 4.3 Inter - University Chemistry Competition. The following were elected to the Committee at the 4.4 Teacher training program. 50th Annual General Meeting held on 15th July 2011. 4.5 Advanced Level chemistry seminar. Chairman - Prof. Sudantha Liyanage 4.6 Donation of teaching and learning resources for Vice Chairman - Mr. W J P D Jayalath Chemical Society of selected University. Chairman Elect - Dr. M P Deeyamulla 4.7 Book donation program. Hony. Secretary - Mr. I M S Herath 4.8 Popular Lectures. Hony. Treasurer - Prof. W S Fernando 4.9 Industrial Visit. Committee Members - Dr. Positha Premaratne 4.10 Writing Monographs by few committee Mr. W A P Silva members. Mr. S Perasiriyan 4.11 Newton A. Dias Weerasinha Memorial Mr. R M G B Rajanayake Scholarship 2011/2012 Prof. L G Chandrasena Mr. Sulith Liyanage 5. Web Site The members are reminded of the web site of our 3 Committee Meetings Section, the address of which is as follows:- There were 12 Committee Meetings held during www.rsc.org/Membership/Networking/Internationa the period, July 2010 to July 2011. The venue of lSections/Sri Lanka/ index. asp. these meetings was the office of the Royal Society of Chemistry SL Section at the S L A A S Headquarters. These meetings were held to discuss I M S Herath the R S C SL Section's, new plans and strategies Hony Secretary with regard to organizing the activities for the year 2010/2011 and thereafter.

Chemistry in Sri Lanka, Vol. 29 No. 1 48